TALENTED teenager Rory Collingbourne is on the fast track to the top in motorsport.

The 17-year-old from Newport has been handpicked by rising star Josh Cook to race for his new team in the Renault UK Clio Cup at Dunlop British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) events in 2015.

Cook, who finished as runner-up in the Clio Cup last year, will this year graduate to the BTCC – Britain’s premier motor racing spectacle.

Close to half the BTCC grid comprises former race-winners or champions from the Clio Cup.

And Cook has also confirmed that he will run his own Clio Cup squad based in workshops in Bristol, with Collingbourne – a top name from the club-level Ford Fiesta race series – as his chosen protégé.

The 2015 Clio Cup begins at the world-famous Brands Hatch circuit in Kent on the first weekend of April.

And Cook is certain that Collingbourne has what it takes to succeed.

“We tested Rory at the end of last year at Donington Park and he was very quick but more importantly he learns quickly,” said Cook.

“That test was key; it made our minds up. He listens very well and understands the car – something that sits very well with our engineers. He’s definitely one to watch.

“Last season we also effectively ran our own team under the SVR banner. By branching out on our own it gives us a chance to make a name for ourselves.”

A delighted Collingbourne said: “I’m obviously very excited about graduating to the Clio Cup.

“It is a massive step up for me but the Fiestas have given me plenty of experience in how to look after myself in a competitive saloon car category – I’m expecting plenty more door-to-door action in Clios!

“To come into Clios with a team like Cooksport and with Josh’s input on the racing and car set-up is a huge bonus.”

The youngster added: “They can give me a car capable of winning races and being the top rookie is definitely on my radar.

“I have only raced on about half the circuits that are on the Clio Cup calendar so I need to do some testing before the season starts.”