Martin Byford to race AmD Milltek Volkswagen Golf in British Touring Cars

AmD started the year with Tom Onslow-Cole before he left to join Arena Motorsport. Team boss Shaun Hollamby then took over for a one-off return at the last round at Croft, but BTCC rookie Byford has now been confirmed in the seat.

"I was in the right place at the right time when AmD were looking for a new driver and I'm thrilled we've been able to do a deal," said Byford, the 2007 Renault Clio Cup champion.

"This is a golden opportunity for me and hopefully I will be able to surprise a few people and remind them who Martin Byford is!"

Onslow-Cole scored points with the Golf at Donington Park and Thruxton and Byford believes he can also get the car into the top 10.

"I accept that there is a lot to learn, but my aim is to be a regular contender for top-10 finishes," added the 39-year-old Briton, who will test the car for the first time at Brands Hatch next week.

"The VW is a car that is more than capable of finishing inside the points so I want to set my stall out and be a consistent top-10 finisher by the end of the year."

Team boss Hollamby, who retired from competitive driving recently, said: "When I spoke to Martin I could see how keen he was to make this happen as he saw it as possibly his last chance to make it into the BTCC.

"He is someone who should have been in the BTCC before now and I think he will surprise a few people on track. I'm pleased that we have been able to give him his chance."