More than 30,000 fans are expected to descend on Snetterton this weekend for a feast of touring car action.

A huge crowd is expected at the Norfolk circuit today and tomorrow as the British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) returns from its summer break.

One of motorsport's marquee weekends – especially in Nelson's County – ends a six-week lay-off which has allowed drivers and supporters alike to draw their breath after a thrilling start to the season.

A close title battle is dominated by four champions and the reigning Independets' winner, Andrew Jordan, who will all be looking to make their mark when the campaign kicks back into top gear.

Three-time title winner Matt Neal, who leads the standings with 224 points, 19 ahead of Jordan, said: 'I love the summer break. But coming to the end of it, I do feel like I did when school term used to be looming.

'We're now heading into the part of the year when it starts to get serious and the gloves come off, so pressure and tempers are going to ramp up. Jason Plato and I have had one incident or another at most circuits so Snetterton is no different. I am sure it'll be business as usual come this one.'

Last year the Honda Racing ace and Plato clashed for the third time at Snetterton and having been quickest in testing recently, MG's double champion will be no pushover.

'I know this place well, even though the circuit in its current configuration is only a few years old,' said Plato.

'I think it will suit our car. It's a challenge, it's a big challenges track. What Jonathan Palmer has done, it's a new circuit which actually adds to what was here before. It always produces a good race, and the weather is always nice here.'

Gordon Shedden sits third on 188, Plato in fourth on the same amount of points while 2009 champion Colin Turkington is the dark horse just four back in fifth.

The latter enjoyed two wins at Croft last time out and believes those victories have boosted his chances of moving his way up the standings. 'Well I'm certainly still in contention, two strong weekends at Oulton and Croft have kept me there, but at the same time I'm still 40 points away from Matt Neal, but I have as good a chance as the guys in front of me. Maybe the new layout here might suit us a bit more,' he said.

Tickets for the Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship at Snetterton are available from £26, with free entry for children aged 12 and under. For more information call 0843 453 9000 or visit www.snetterton.co.uk