A YOUNG karting star's days in the sport may be numbered after an appeal for sponsorship fell on deaf ears.

Rhyan Cunningham - who fulfiled both his own and his late father's dream by clinching his first-ever championship in December - entered his second Shenington contest last month.

But his mum, Mandi, said the 14-year-old's hopes were under threat because a plea in January has raised just £500 of the £6,000-£7,000 needed to complete the year-long championship.

He could be forced to pull out within months - and even sooner if problems develop with his 125cc kart that reaches 80 mph.

"We're really hardly further forward than before," said Mrs Cunningham, of Pearl Lane, Astley. "It's disappointing."

She added Rhyan's hope of competing in the nationwide British championship - which would cost a further £13,000 - was "out of the question".

"We'd be grateful if he could just do one. It would be a shame to let all that talent go to waste because of not having the money."

Rhyan's dad Dale, who shared his passion for karting and Formula One, died last October in a Birmingham car crash.

Mrs Cunningham, 38, has also written to several motorsport companies but has had no response.

For further information contact Mrs Cunningham on 07903 114878.