New Malden racing driver Tom Onslow-Cole has revealed the recession scuppered his chances of a seat in the British Touring Car Championship this season but has vowed to be back.

The 22-year-old was released by Vauxhall-backed VXR Racing at the end of last season to be replaced by Andrew Jordan, despite finishing a career best sixth in the drivers table and winning two rounds at Thruxton.

Onslow-Cole, who had part funded his drive with the reigning team champions himself last year, had the choice of the three deals for this season, but was left kicking his heels as each one pulled the plug in racing.

And the former Brooklands College student, who did secure a one-off last minute drive in place of Team Aon’s Alan Morrison at Croft , admits it has been a frustrating summer.

“We had three deals lined up with manufacturers and slowly one by one they had they went back on plans because of cash shortages,” he said.

“It was really frustrating. Because they were full deals we weren’t looking for sponsorship and when they fell through at the last minute we were in no position to find our owen funding.

“I got back in a car once this year - which was good - but wasn’t ideal. I got a call on the Friday morning to go practising, we were qualifying on Saturday and racing by Sunday, so it was all a bit of rush job.

“I’m confident we can get back racing full-time soon.”