Jack Sears Trophy champion Josh Cook says he’s still working hard to secure his place on the 2016 BTCC grid after the setback of losing one of his major backers from last season.

Cook was supported by Racing for Heroes for his maiden assault on touring cars in 2015, but that programme was disbanded late last season.

Nevertheless, the former Renault Clio Cup star is still cautiously optimistic about being in one of the remaining seats ahead of the season launch at Donington Park next month.

Speaking to TouringCarTimes at the Thruxton test this week, Cook said: “We were still working with Racing for Heroes last year and that was a multi-year plan. But that company closed down towards the end of last season and the programme stopped.

“So we were very late jumping on the bandwagon to get our own sponsors from new, rather than continue with the leads we had. It’s been difficult getting the sponsors together, but it’s the same for everybody.

“It’s difficult enough to get into touring cars so dropping back out of it is not for me. I don’t want to go back into Clios, as much as I love driving them.

“There’s been a lot of speculation about where I might end up, and apparently I’ve signed for about four different teams! We’re working hard and hopefully we will have something sorted in the next couple of weeks.”

Cook’s first season in the BTCC saw a successful partnership with the fledgling Power Maxed Racing outfit, which saw him net his first podium finish at Rockingham, and comfortably win the title of best rookie.

The 24-year-old said he would like to remain with the team, but was exploring all of his options.

He said: “As a driver you’ve got to speak to all the teams. I promote that to all my guys in Clios – you need to find out what’s available and what’s best for you.

“Yes, I’m talking to lots of teams but we will just have to see who wants me enough!

“I think consistency is really important in motorsport. Ultimately it comes down to budgets and sponsors, and how much space teams have got for sponsors.

“As much as I’d like to stay at Power Maxed, if it’s not possible I’ll look elsewhere. I know time’s running out, but we managed to secure a seat at the last minute at the start of last season.”