Local ace Robert Collard will replace Gavin Smith in GR Asia’s SEAT Leon for the Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship’s final rounds at his home circuit of Thruxton this weekend.

Collard, from Fleet, last raced in the BTCC in 2006’s season finale with the Team RAC squad. He has two race wins to his credit with WSR’s MG squad in 2005.

Team principal Paul Ridgway told BTCC.net: “I’m looking forward to working with Rob again – I ran him to the 2003 Independents title and he’s a very quick, polished driver.

“I’m sure he’ll be quickly up to speed in the Leon and will be looking to remind people he’s capable of doing the business in 2008. He’s the ideal driver to bring in for the final.”

Collard will race using number 18.