Motorsport
Jackson is feeling positive

MAT Jackson says he is very encouraged by developments to his Ford Focus ST as he prepares for the start of the new Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship.

Jackson, from Henley, will roar back into action at Brands Hatch on March 31/April 1 with his home meeting following at Donington Park on April 14/15.

Having come close to winning last year’s crown, Jackson has had his first three major tests back behind the wheel of his Focus and reports an immediate improvement.

“We’ve now tested at Rockingham, Snetterton and Brands Hatch and its clear the team has made a lot of progress with the car over the winter,” he said.

“The power and torque from the Mountune engine is legendary and a lot of effort has gone into the car to improve cornering stability. I don’t want to say too much or get too carried away because the other teams will undoubtedly have moved on, but so far so good.”

Jackson joined the rest of the drivers for the first major duty of the BTCC season on Monday for the championship’s high profile Media Day at Silverstone.

“It’s always a big day for the teams and sponsors on the grid with about 200 media present as well as an unbelievable number of fans who take the time of work to come and have a preview of the cars,” Jackson added.