Epps remains with Team Hard as it expands BTCC attack

Jack Sears Trophy runner up Michael Epps will return to the British Touring Car Championship next season and will handle a Team Hard VW CC.

The 24-year-old has inked a deal with the Kent firm, which will expand to run four cars in the category next year after fielding three in 2016.

The team has already signed Ginetta GT4 Supercup graduate Will Burns for 2017.

Epps said: “I was a little worried about being a one season wonder in the BTCC, especially being such a tough season with a few disadvantages and setbacks, but I’m glad I was able to make an impression and create a 2017 campaign out of it.

“As anyone would expect with a small budget and a team that aren’t as experienced in my rookie season, there have been lots of challenges and I’m sure there are plenty more ahead. The ingredients are there though; with new cars and more people on-board I think we have every reason to be properly in the mix this time. We definitely outdid our equipment this year.”

Team boss Tony Gilham added: “Mike had a great season and we believe that next year will be very interesting to see how far up the grid he can get.”

Gilham said he has signed a third driver, but was in talks over his newly acquired fourth licence.

“The addition of the fourth car comes with a new base, which will be state of the art.

“We are in talks with drivers for the last remaining seat who are looking to secure a BTCC drive in time for testing. These are exciting times for Team Hard.”