It is a very high profile race series – with coverage in Autosport Magazine, Motorsport News and on TV by channels such as Motors TV, Sky Sports Xtra and Setanta Sport – and is designed as a proving ground for budding Formula 1 drivers.

In the past the series has seen top racers such as Kimi Raikonnen and Lewis Hamilton progress.

James said: "I am driving an ex Kimi Raikonnen car – a Mygale SJ99. It was run by Kimi Raikonnen in the series in 1999 that has proven to be very successful in the past. The car is a single seat racing car powered by a 2.0 litre Renault Laguna engine and runs on slick tyres and adjustable aerodynamics."

Formula Renault BARC is the highest profile club level racing series in the country. It is highly competitive and spaces are restricted to 36 drivers.

The series benefits from a £12,000 prize fund supported by Renault that is spread over each round. There are 12 rounds in total at seven meetings.

James added: "I decided to make this step to such a high profile series after a very successful first two years in racing. In 2006 I became the MG Owners Club Novice Champion and then in 2007 came third overall with eight podium finishes and one fastest lap. This year is a big test for me to see how I get on not only in single seat racing but also how I compete at a high level.

"We run the team Stanbridge Motorsport as a small operation featuring myself and a technical team consisting of David Simons, Tony Smith, Daniel Birkenhead and Matt Gray. Each member of the team has a very keen interest in Motorsport and is driven to help me and the team succeed."

Although Stanbridge Motorsport is a small team, they are fully aware of the commercial aspects and the advantages motorsport can offer business partners.

"We are very keen to work alongside the local business community to help promote their brands within the area. We feel we can do this by offering effective marketing and hospitality to all business partners."

Any local business wishing to discuss partnership opportunities please contact James on 07989 686749 or email jamessimons17@aol.com.