The 2008 HiQ British Touring Car Championship resumes at Snetterton this weekend after a six week break. It’s still been a busy time for Tom Chilton as following the Round The Island yacht race two weeks ago, he was a guest of Honda at the recent ‘Dreamfields’ event at the British Grand Prix at Silverstone ....

A six week break may sound relaxing but Tom has been occupying his time with loads of training and some exciting events too. Two weekends ago he was amongst the crew on a 50ft yacht for the Round The Island Race at Isle of Wight, helping bring the Capricorno home in second place in class amongst nearly 2000 crews. (see news)

Last weekend, back on dry land, Tom was at Silverstone guesting at Honda’s Dreamfields event. Mixing with their VIP guests and challenging them to lapping in Honda’s Formula 1 simulator as well as taking part in a motorsport pub style quiz, where Tom captained a team that included his younger brother – Formula 3 racer Max Chilton.

In an interview with the legendary commentator Murray Walker, Tom described his season racing the Team Halfords Honda Civic and his hopes for this coming weekend’s races at Snetterton.

“We are prepared” he said. “We tested there recently and although the SEATs were quicker and it will be difficult to beat them, it’s always difficult. This year’s championship is the most competitive that I have experienced in my six years of the BTCC. So we have to work hard, get the best out of the set-up and I have to get the best out of myself. I’m fitter than I’ve ever been and determined to turn the pace I’ve shown in testing into good solid race results. Yes the SEATs are strong, but they are beatable. If all our preparation comes together there is no reason why I can’t be on the top step of the podium this weekend.”

It will be a busy build up for Tom as he is driving at the Goodwood Festival of Speed on Friday, giving rides to Honda’s guests in the two seat version of his Civic racer. Then it’s up to Norfolk for the practice and qualifying on Saturday in preparation for the three races on Sunday 13th July. As usual, TV coverage will be live on ITV4.