Maximum Motorsport has announced Josh Cook as the driver of its Ford Focus ST for the 2017 Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship.

Team Principal, Stewart Lines, sustained injuries after falling from a mountain bike in January, leaving him immobile with muscle and ligament damage. On review of his situation, Lines seized the opportunity to sign Cook for the coming campaign.

The 25-year-old had become available having recently announced his departure from MG Racing RCIB Insurance and Lines, confident in the Bath racer’s ability in the championship, made the decision to vacate his seat, giving the young gun the opportunity to further his BTCC career.

“I’m elated to be back on the grid for 2017 – it all turned around in the space of 24 hours,” said Cook. “The support that I received when I announced my departure from MG was incredible. I’m immensely grateful to Stewart for enabling my return this coming season. It’s taken a lot of effort with multiple new sponsors but thank you to everyone involved. I can’t wait to get stuck into pre-season testing.

“I think we’ve got a great package with Maximum Motorsport, the Focus has been upgraded over the off-season and with Team Parker Racing looking after the operation of the car throughout the year, we should be pushing for strong finishes from the off.”

“After my accident, we started analysing our options forthcoming campaign to allow myself enough time for recovery,” added Lines. “When Josh announced he was without a drive, we grasped the opportunity to sign a very capable young talent.

“I’m disappointed that I won’t be lining up on the 2017 grid, as the car has undergone a significant programme of upgrades over the winter period and is now down to a much lighter weight. Despite this, I am delighted we’re running Josh this season and believe we’ve got the complete package to produce some strong finishes.”

The team is set for an extensive test schedule, with its new livery to be revealed at the official Season Launch on 16 March, Donington Park.