British racing driver Nick Padmore and Belgian team mate Jean-Lou Rihon fly out to France on Thursday for the second round of the French V de V Championship at Paul Ricard this weekend.

The double-act endured a trying weekend in the opening round at Jarama, Spain last month in their Norma M20F, prepared by Leicester concern Norma UK, but are looking to put their troubles behind them as they head to the French circuit, situated at Le Castellet, near Marseille.

"We were lacking pace all weekend at Jarama but hopefully that's behind us now", commented Reigate resident Padmore. "The team have been working very hard behind the scenes and have rebuilt the engine, which was later found to be down on power, as well as making sure the car is more balanced.

"I'm looking forward to getting behind the wheel again so we can find out exactly how much progress has been made. It's looking promising though so, I guess, for us our season starts here".

The Circuit Paul Ricard was originally built in 1969; primarily funded by drinks magnate Paul Ricard. However, in 1999 the circuit was taken over by Excelis - a company owned by Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone. Since then, the circuit has been revamped into a state-of-the-art test track and is now known as Paul Ricard HTTT (High Tech Test Track).

Friday will see the French V de V grid released onto the track for qualifying at 5.20pm local time with the 4-hour race taking place on Saturday at 1.30pm.