Matt Neal claimed third place in the 2003 Green Flag MSA British Touring Car Championship in style at Oulton Park. The Honda Racing driver made an excellent start to move up from 12th to sixth in lap one and never looked back, winning his sixth race of the season.

But there was disappointment for the other Honda Racing drivers. Technical problems forced Alan Morrison to retire at the end of the formation lap and illness prevented Tom Chilton from competing in the final round of the season.

It was a fantastic drive from Neal as he worked his way skillfully through the field. By the end of lap six he had gained the advantage over the MG of Anthony Reid and as the pit stop window opened he was in third place behind James Thompson and Yvan Muller.

But if bad luck had marred Neal’s first race good luck was definitely on his side this time. James Thompson suffered a puncture at the start of lap 10 to give Neal second place as he went in for his stop on lap 11. After an excellent stop he rejoined the race in the lead ahead of Muller, going on to win.

The bad luck that has dogged Morrison all season struck again at the start of race two. The race was over before it had begun for the Ulsterman when his steering rack failed at the end of the formation lap, forcing him to retire. He finished fifth in the championship.

Chilton was unable to take part in the final race of the season due to illness. The 18- year-old battled tonsillitis all week for a chance to compete in the final round but after a visit to the course doctor he was declared not well enough to race. He finished ninth in the championship.

Matt Neal: “That was fantastic. I’m absolutely over the moon to end the season on such a high. I didn’t expect that result after starting from the sixth row of the grid. I’ve got to give full credit to the team. It really was an amazing team effort. My pit stop was spot on and that’s what gave me the advantage over Muller.

Alan Morrison: “Obviously I’m very disappointed. Lady luck was definitely not on my side today. I’m delighted for Matt, though, and it’s a great result for Honda Racing.”

Tom Chilton: “I really did want to take part in the last race of the season and I am really disappointed, but at the same time I’m really happy for Matt and the team.”

“It’s a great way to finish the championship for Honda Racing.”