Hill Speed Racing has announced single-seater ace Stuart Gough (Southport) as its first signing ahead of the 2004 Formula Renault UK Championship with a second driver expected to be confirmed shortly.

The 22-year old, who has limited race car experience in the regional North-West Formula Ford 1600 Championship and Formula Ford Winter Series, is looking forward to his debut campaign in the category with Hill Speed, the team having only made its bow in the championship during the middle of last season.

Speaking on his new deal, Gough said: “It’s fantastic to sign with a team as focused as I am to succeed and with the kind of passion Hill Speed Racing has. It’s something I worked towards for the whole of 2003 and it shows all the hard work of running a family team in regional Formula Ford has paid off.

“It sends out positive messages to all the other club competitors nationwide the step up can be made. Formula Renault UK is a huge boost to my career and although it will be a steep learning curve, I think we’ll surprise a few people along the way.”

Hill Speed Racing team principle Richard Ollerenshaw commented: “Stuart came to us highly recommended by a number of sources. Our aim for the 2004 season is to secure drivers that can not only challenge for podiums but also remain consistent throughout the championship.

“In Stuart we have found someone who perfectly fits our requirements and shares the same ethos of total professionalism as the team. After meeting him it became obvious he’s the driver for the job and I expect him to able to challenge for top six finishes from very early in the season.”

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