Touring Cars: Lloyd is now licensed to thrill once again

The talented young driver, who lives in Scammonden, has been rewarded for his efforts in the Blancpain Endurance Series, Britsh GT and United Sports Car Championships.

Despite testing with Eurotech in pre-season, Lloyd was unable to secure a Touring Car licence. However, after Halfords Yuasa Racing parted ways with Andy Neate last week, the 24 year-old secured that vacant licence and will make his BTCC return at Thruxton on May 8. Lloyd had previously driven in the BTCC for three races at Croft Circuit in 2010, when just 18.

After announcing the deal at Donington Park, Lloyd said: “I have been looking to do the British Touring Car Championship for a long, long time and it is the biggest championship in the country.

“It is going to be a step into the unknown for me to start with, but I want to get familiar with the car quickly and be challenging for podiums – although starting at Thruxton is going to be an eye-opener.”

Though Thruxton is widely considered to be one of the toughest and fastest circuits on the calendar, Lloyd is confident of success following his experience in multiple formulas.

“I could have picked an easier circuit but I’ve got a decent track record round there and the Honda has mega potential. I tested the car in February and it went really well, the pace was good.

“I’m not going to say I will get a podium straight away, but, hopefully, I will do sooner rather than later.”

Lloyd will spend the coming weeks raising his profile as he looks to secure support from sponsors. He has been part of the TOCA package for six years and is relishing the opportunity.

“Touring Car is a great place to be,” added Lloyd. “It’s raising its profile again to what it used to be. It’s been hard work but I’m determined to make the most of this opportunity.”

Lloyd becomes the second Yorkshire driver to compete in BTCC this season. Bradford-born Sam Tordoff has enjoyed a promising start to this campaign, securing podiums at Brands Hatch and Donington.