This study proposes a modified structure of the E-core permanent magnet (PM) assist switched reluctance motor by relocating the PM blades inside the stator core. For this purpose, the PMs are removed from the stator poles and placed slantwise inside the yoke. The proposed yoke-PM assist structure is characterised with higher average torque and a lower torque ripple with respect to the conventional pole-PM assist structure. An analytical approach based on the magnetic equivalent circuit is applied at the preliminary design stage to predict the performance of the motor. Based on the presented analytical modelling, the physical dimensions of the motor are optimised via a genetic algorithm to maximise the motor torque and the overall steady state performance. For further verifications, the finite-element analysis simulation results are verified by the experimental tests on the motor prototype.