Part of the British Touring Car Championship establishment and three times a title winner, Northern Irishman Colin Turkington chats about his low-key start in motor racing, the efforts to which he went to make his first racing car – a Metro – more aerodynamically efficient and the unexpected manner in which a hobby put him on the path to a successful professional career.

He has secured all three of his BTCC championships with West Surrey Racing and BMW – and this season he seeks to emulate Andy Rouse, the only driver previously to have won four. Turkington comes from a family with a strong motor sport heritage – and the dynasty looks certain to continue. When he’s not competing in the BTCC, Turkington can often be found at kart tracks, overseeing the efforts of his two young sons.