SCOTHALL Hampshire, the Chandler's Ford based BMW and MINI dealership, has joined forces with experienced local racing driver Robin Austin to support him through the 2004 John Cooper Challenge.

The multi-discipline race series, now in its third season, puts MINI Cooper and MINI Cooper S drivers through their paces over a seven month season which includes a sprint, a hill-climb and 10 races.

It's Austin's first season behind the wheel of a MINI although the Romsey driver is no stranger to UK tracks with nearly 20 years motor racing experience under his belt.

He's currently running just outside the top ten after the first handful of events with a best performance of eighth.