James Cole takes “hard decision” to quit Tony Gilham Racing

James Cole says he has taken the “very hard decision” to leave Tony Gilham Racing with immediate effect, and is concentrate on finding a long-term future in the BTCC.

The 24-year-old from Liverpool has scored 11 points in his half-season campaign, with a best finish of 13th in his Vauxhall Insignia.

He said: “This was a very hard decision to make, the BTCC is a great championship. I moved into touring cars this season and it was meant to be the first chapter of my education into driving a tin-top car.

“My mechanics worked tirelessly, and I would like to thank them all for their efforts. I will now look for opportunities to progress as a top-level touring car driver.”

Tony Gilham Racing have made no comment on Cole’s departure, but have posted a picture on Twitter of another new livery for Tom Onslow-Cole’s Volkswagen CC, sporting sponsorship from Bright Star Fireworks.