Thruxton will be alive with the sights and sounds of the UK’s biggest and best motor racing series this weekend, as the British Touring Car Championship makes its annual visit to the ultra-fast circuit.

Tens of thousands of sports fans will be treated to non-stop action all weekend, as the 2014 season is already shaping up to be one of the best in the championship’s long history.

No fewer than 31 cars will line up on the grid for three thril a minute races on Sunday, and for those looking to make it a full weekend of adrenaline-fuelled action, there are two free practice sessions and an all-important qualifying on the Saturday, too.

Among the capacity grid of latest-generation cars there are seven who have won the championship before, so picking a winner is going to be even harder than ever.

Reigning champion Andrew Jordan is being hounded for his crown by the likes of Jason Plato, Matt Neal, Colin Turkington, Gordon Shedden and two former title-winners who have returned to the fray this season – Alain Menu and Thruxton specialist Fabrizio Giovanardi.

There are six other drivers who have already won BTCC races, so expect there to be some close, hard racing all the way through the field.

Thruxton poses a unique challenge for the drivers and teams, as its flat-out, high-speed configuration means maximum concentration and perfect car set-up are required. The average speed for BTCC cars is well over 100mph, with the cars topping out at an eye-watering 145mph before braking for the final chicane.

With grandstand seating and a giant TV screen showing action from all around the circuit, trackside really is the place to be.

In addition to the main BTCC races there are five support series, with races across Saturday and Sunday in a huge variety of cars.

From Ginetta GTs to Formula Ford open-wheel cars and stunning new Porsche 991 GT3s, there’s something for everyone on this bumper bill of UK racing.

Under 15’s are free and everyone has a chance to meet their favourite BTCC drivers during the pit-lane walkabout and autograph session on Sunday.

Head to www.thruxtonracing.co.uk for more info.