Rising star Paul O'Neill has been snapped up by financial services firm Egg for this year's British Touring Car Championship.

For the second year running Egg will be partnering with Triple 8 Race Engineering, the team based at Greatworth, near Banbury, responsible for running the works Vauxhall Astra Coupes.

O'Neill, a relative newcomer to the racing circuit, started his motorsport career in 1999, gaining valuable track experience in the MGF cup.

He raced in the BTCC for the first time in 2001 finishing eighth in the drivers' championship, having taken one pole position and three podium finishes.

O'Neill, who will join their new signing Matt Neall said: "I am really excited about this year - it is great to be driving with a dynamic team such as Egg Sport, they had a great result last year and hopefully I can help them do even better this year."

Former Grand Prix driver Derek Warwick and Roland Dane have sold their shareholding in Triple 8 Race Engineering to long-time partner Ian Harrison. The firm prepares the works Vauxhall touring cars. TOCA Tour series director Richard West said: "I know personally from my days at Williams Grand Prix Engineering that the team is in extremely good hands, and I wish to assure Ian of our continued support."