Rockingham’s Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship fixture on 22 April will provide the public with a bill of top-class entertainment, according to the circuit’s boss.

Chairman Len O’Hagan says that after a four-year absence his circuit is eager to welcome back the BTCC – Britain’s biggest motor racing series – and already the signs are that its race day will be a huge hit with the public.

O’Hagan said: “We are delighted to have touring cars back at our revitalised circuit for an exciting season-opener to the racing calendar at Rockingham.

“Our unique track lay-out, great facilities and panoramic views of the circuit proved a great hit with the drivers, teams, sponsors and motor racing fans alike in 2003.

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“We know it was a popular decision for the series to return to Rockingham this season. This was reinforced by the response we had from the media and public who attended the official launch of the BTCC season in March.”

Jason Plato (Oxford), driving for the local-to-Rockingham, Northampton-based team SEAT Sport UK team currently leads the BTCC points standing from reigning champion Matt Neal (Droitwich), in his Team Halfords Honda Civic, with Colin Turkington (Portadown) third in his Team RAC BMW. A field of 26 cars is entered for Rockingham’s three BTCC rounds that will receive live television coverage on ITV.

Also of local interest is Northampton’s BTCC star Nick Leason, in his BTC Racing team’s Lexus.

In addition to the three BTCC rounds, there will be eight more races from the high-profile supporting championships from BMW, Porsche, Renault and SEAT.