FORMULA One team Marussia have announced that Rochford-born Will Stevens has been signed as a reserve driver.

Stevens, who lived in Hadleigh until he moved to Surrey in his early teens, did not take a seat with the team for the first free practice session this morning in Suzuka as expected.

It was widely anticipated the 23-year-old Briton, who currently competes in the World Series Formula Renault 3.5 championship with Strakka Racing, would replace compatriot Max Chilton for the opening session of the Japanese Grand Prix.

Although it is understood an issue with paperwork put paid to his chances of making it out on track, Marussia confirmed he will be used in their grand prix weekends before the end of the 2014 season.

"I'm really thrilled to be given this opportunity by the Marussia F1 team," the former Thorpe Hall pupil said.

"They are a great team, with enormous potential, and I'm so happy to be joining them at this exciting time in their development. Off the back of my F1 tests with Caterham, I can't wait to get my first taste of the MR03.

"I'm looking forward to rewarding their faith in me and to making a positive contribution to our progress in the 2014 championship - and beyond."

Stevens becomes the second driver to sign on as a reserve at Marussia having previously tested with rivals Caterham, joining Alexander Rossi in moving across the paddock.

Chilton, who was part of a confusing race weekend in Spa where he was originally expected to be replaced by Rossi before being reinstalled into his seat, had said on Thursday he was happy to step aside and allow long-term friend Stevens to be given a chance.

But once again Chilton was in the car after initially expecting not to be part of morning practice, with 17-year-old Max Verstappen and Roberto Merhi the only two drivers coming in for the morning, for Toro Rosso and Caterham respectively.