Lee Keeler has completed the build of a new car just a fortnight before going racing.

Keeler finished second in the BTRDA Rallycross Championship production class in 2019 but was keen to progress.

The natural step up was to build a car capable of running in BTRDA Supermodified and 5 Nations British Rallycross Supernational level.

Keeler, from Biddenden, and his team have managed to transform an Astra VXR shell into a race car.

“I have only raced in Rallycross for the last three years so stepping up to this level was a big decision,” he said.

“All we had to do was build a car that was going to be competitive and first step was buying a doner car. With my limited knowledge we were very lucky to get MWH Motorsport on board with us early on as a main partner. With their hard work and knowledge of these cars, the doner car was stripped of everything we needed to keep and the engine out-stripped and rebuilt.”

Gremlin Motorsport completed the wiring and electrical work and with the help of many others the car is now ready for round one of the 5 Nations Rallycross Championship at Lydden Hill on May 29.

Lee said: “We decided to enter the 5 Nations as this is a great level and showcase for all of our partners and sponsors, without all of them we wouldn’t be racing and each and everyone has been an integral part to us achieving our goal.

“We have our one and only test run of the car this Saturday so fingers crossed we don’t run into any big issues!

“We know this is very much going to be a learning year not only for the development of the car but also me as a driver as the standard and level of experience of some of the drivers in this class are incredible but for us to be out there amongst these guys is amazing.”

The calendar this year sees the inclusion of Mondello in Ireland and also the final round at Spa in Belgium which was another factor in choosing this Championship.

He added: “There are so many people to thank helping us achieve what we have and I hope that we can put on a good show for spectators that are finally allowed to attend also over the Bank Holiday weekend event at our local track Lydden Hill. We can’t wait to see everyone and get started.”