MOTOR-RACING starlet Jake Hill is preparing to launch a Ginetta G40 title bid this coming season.

The 16-year-old Goudhurst ace has signed for multiple one-make championship winning team JHR Developments.

Attracting Hill to its G40 ranks marks a major coup for JHR ahead of its maiden season in the category formerly known as the Ginetta Junior Championship.

The Kent teenager exploded onto the car racing scene during the Ginetta Junior Winter Championship at the end of 2008 where he led only his third ever race and went on to claim a maiden podium with a fine third place finish.

Although only able to contest 12 of the 20 rounds in Ginetta Junior last year, Hill was regarded as perhaps the fastest driver in the series.

Alongside his hat-trick of race wins – two of which coming during the season finale at Brands Hatch Grand Prix Circuit following a lengthy eight race lay off – he secured two more podiums, five fastest race laps and five pole positions.

"We're absolutely delighted to have secured Jake to lead our new Ginetta G40 squad this year, he's undoubtedly going to be one of the front-runners," said JHR team principal Steven Hunter.

"Ginetta G40 is clearly going to be as competitive as ever, but we're confident we'll be able to hit the ground running and mount a sustained championship challenge throughout the year."

If you are interested in sponsoring Hill for the coming season contact simon@jakehill.co.uk