MOTOR SPORT: Kart racing champion Nathan Freke rounded off the season in style at Three Sisters, near Wigan.

Freke needed only one point to secure the club championship in the competitive 125 open class and could have just driven for that.

However, having been consistently fastest in testing, the prospect of a win against top British championship drivers meant throwing caution to the wind and risking the overall title.

Two good starts in the qualifying heats saw Freke take second in the first and victory in the next giving him pole position for the final.

A blistering start gave him a 20-yard lead by the first corner which he extended to .25 of a lap by the end.

Freke beat top national drivers and secured the championship with his fifth win of the year at the track, a record in one year in that class.

It brought a triumphant season to a close for Freke who is the youngest British Open champion and the Midland Champion title holder.

The teenager was also fourth in the short circuit British series as well as recording numerous club wins.

Freke plans to continue in 125 gearbox in the British Championship next year, both on long and short circuits.

He will test single seater cars with his new car race licence and, subject to sponsorship, contest the European title in 125 gearbox karting.

Anyone requiring information on Freke, karting or how to start in motor sport can call 01562 632032.