ITV line up presenter and commentator

The channel have taken over the deal to broadcast the BTCC from BBC Grandstand for the first time, showing the rounds on Saturday afternoons a week after the races take place. Seven of the 10 events will follow on from ITV's Formula 1 qualifying shows.

Former F1 and Champ Car commentator Edwards said: "I'm very excited to be involved. Touring cars are definitely on the up again. Everyone has done a great job building the BTCC's profile in the past year and I'm very proud to be part of the show. I'm looking forward to working with Vicki too. She's great fun."

BTCC boss Richard West said: "It's a breath of fresh air for the championship - a new-look team to cover a new-look series. Ben and Vicki are full of enthusiasm and that will shine through."

The programmes are being produced by Granada Sport. Company managing director Jim Raven said: "We are very excited at bringing Britain's premier motor racing series to the ITV regions. It will complement the network's coverage of F1 and give a complete package to motorsport fans around the country."

The first round takes place on April 1 at Brands Hatch and will be shown on ITV the following Saturday.