The latest driver to join the John Cooper Challenge is Rob Austin, best known for heading Formula Renault team Startline Racing Services in the 1990s. The Hampshire racer will end a 14-year break from racing to tackle the JCC. 

Austin started racing in Pre '74 FF1600 in 1985 and later raced FF2000 before concentrating on team management. Alex Yoong was one of the drivers that the team fielded in the British and European championships.

Austin is returning to racing in a Clubsport MINI tended by Mark Fish, and sampled the ex-Liz Biagioni car at Goodwood on Monday (29 March) during the exclusive JCC test day.

"I've missed racing dreadfully," he admits. "I saw the John Cooper Challenge a couple of years ago and thought it looked good fun. Now, I can't wait to get started!"

Austin's campaign will be backed by Orchard Homes and Scotthall MINI from Southampton.