Tipton’s Harry Tincknell is looking to impress as he moves up to the next rung of the ladder to Formula One, competing in the 2011 Cooper Tires British F3 International Series which gets under way at Monza, Italy this weekend.

A breeding ground for future world champions, Formula Three has seen the likes of Sir Jackie Stewart and Ayrton Senna pass through it, as well as 2009 Formula One Drivers’ Champion Jenson Button and 2010 champion Sebastian Vettel.

Competing in 30 races over 10 race weekends, the 19-year-old will be put to the test at some of Europe’s most challenging circuits, including Spa-Francorchamps, Silverstone and the N�rburgring.

Harry moves to Formula Three after two successful seasons in the ultra-competitive Formula Renault UK Championship. A highly-respectable fifth-place finish in 2010 followed victory in the 2009 Graduate Cup, with Harry’s on-track performance more than enough to convince Fortec Motorsports to sign the talented youngster.

"I'm really enjoying it at Fortec," said Harry. "The guys have so much passion and there's a strong work ethic. It’s a real team effort and our focus is on getting it right.”

Harry is one of just 10 drivers hand-picked from the UK’s 34,000 competition license holders for the Motor Sports Association Team UK programme. The scheme selects the country’s most promising driving talent and provides them with support and mentoring as they work towards achieving their goals. Acknowledging his continued progress, Harry has been confirmed support for a second year.

For his British F3 campaign, Harry will take to the track behind the wheel of a Fortec Dallara-Mercedes.

"The car is massively different to what I’ve been driving in Formula Renault,” said Harry. "You’re going through corners even faster with a lot more downforce, so there’s a much greater stress on your neck. I've worked really hard on my fitness throughout the winter to get me ready for the season ahead.”

Fortec Motorsports Team Owner Richard Dutton said: “I’m delighted that Harry has signed for Fortec. Having watched him over the last couple of years, his progress has been outstanding and we look forward to a successful year ahead in Formula Three.”

To keep up-to-date with Harry, become a fan of Harry Tincknell Racing on Facebook, or follow Harry on Twitter, www.twitter.com/HarryTincknell.