Team HARD with Trade Price Cars has today announced the signing of Ethan Hammerton, who will complete the remainder of the 2018 Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship with the outfit.

Hammerton fills the seat vacated by Michael Caine after Carl Boardley temporarily took the reigns for the Knockhill race weekend.

The 17-year-old overcame more than 100 competitors to win a Team HARD young driver scholarship and has since been racing in the Volkswagen Cup with the stable. He steps up to Britain’s premier motor racing series, fulfilling a lifelong ambition.

“I have watched the BTCC since I was a little kid and I can’t believe I’m now going to be a part of the championship,” said Hammerton.

“I switched from racing karts to racing cars in the Junior Saloon Car Championship when I was 15, in 2015, and from then it was my goal to race in the BTCC and I’ve achieved that ambition – it’s a dream come true.

“We were at Rockingham supporting fellow Team HARD graduate Bobby Thompson and the rest of team when discussions started with Tony (Gilham – Team Principal). I am over the moon that everything is now in place and I can’t wait to get out in the car.

“I know it’s going to be tough. I fully appreciate the trust put in me and will give everything I have for the team. I know how privileged I am to have been given this opportunity and I am realistic about my expectations.

“I really want to be in the BTCC next year and I’m hoping that this is just the beginning. I’d like to thank Tony Gilham, Team HARD, GKR Scaffolding, HMC Group, Hadrian Healthcare and my other sponsors for making this happen.”