Even by its own nail-biting standards, this year’s thrilling Kwik Fit British Touring Car Championship reached an extraordinary climax. After 27 topsy-turvy showdowns, incredibly Jake Hill and Tom Ingram arrived at Brands Hatch for last weekend’s grand finale absolutely tied on points as the UK’s highest profile motor sport series went right down to the wire.

In a breath-taking and unforgettable final day of racing, Hill gained the early advantage by winning the first of the three concluding rounds in his BMW. Not to be outdone, Ingram then responded by winning the second in his Hyundai. Now just a single point separated the duelling duo as they lined up for the decisive denouement. Adding to the demands and drama, light rain was falling to make track conditions all the more challenging.

The reverse grid meant Hill lined up in sixth spot, one place and one point ahead of his title rival. It was a determined Ingram, though, who then assumed the virtual championship lead in the frantic first few laps jumping the BMW in the opening exchanges.

Mastering the tricky conditions, Hill battled back and, in a season defining manoeuvre, masterfully slipped past the Hyundai just before half distance thus putting himself back on a date with destiny.

As the chequer flew, it brought the flag down on what had been one of the most tense finishes in the BTCC’s long history and, for the very first time, Jake Hill’s name now joins those of touring car greats such as Jim Clark, Andy Rouse, Colin Turkington, Matt Neal and Ash Sutton on the coveted silver trophy.

“2024 BTCC Champion sounds amazing,” admitted the 30-year-old who had been dreaming about winning this highly prized title ever since he was a young boy. “It’s everything I’ve ever wanted and more. I’m overwhelmed, the support has been incredible, I’m speechless.

“The emotions started to hit me as I made my way to the last corner at Clearways, I was getting a bit teary eyed there – we just brought it home. As we crossed the line it was just an amazing experience.

“We’ve had a great race and an amazing weekend, and it happened when I needed it most. It’s made everything worth it; it has been such a fight the last 15 years to even stay on the grid and now we’ve made it happen!”

It is hard to imagine next season’s BTCC will come close to emulating the astonishing conclusion witnessed by those at Brands Hatch and watching at home on ITV4. That said the BTCC is the championship which never stops giving and the 2025 story line commences at Donington Park at the end of April.