Engines roaring, a heady smell of petrol in the air, spectators agog - never mind next weekend's season-opening FI grand prix in Australia, the place to be today was a rural go-kart track near Cromer.

Would-be Sebastian Vettels, the reigning world champ, lined up at Karttrak in Northrepps, for the chance of glory in a grand prix for cadets and adults which raised at least �300 for a good cause.

The cash will go to the charity KartForce which adapts go-karts for injured troops so that they can still experience the adrenalin-packed thrill of racing.

Karttrack owner Robert Marshall said they had adopted the charity for 2012 and would be holding further similar events for the cause between May and August.

The idea was the brainwave of Kate and Darren Tritton, of Aylsham Road, North Walsham, whose son Jack, 13, is a regular and rising star at Karttrack's youth club.

'I don't think injured soldiers are taken care of properly when they come home from Afghanistan,' said Mr Tritton.

His wife added: 'My brothers have been in the forces and this is a way of helping a good cause and having a bit of fun as well.'

Jack went on to win the cadets race while his friend Nathan Foulser, 12, came second and Jack's sister Danielle Tritton, 16, was third.

And the day turned into a Tritton triumph when mum Kate came third in the adults' race, behind winner Nathan Redgrave and runner-up Luke Cole.

Among those competing in the senior race was Luke Drake, of Beeching Road, Lakenham, who was being treated to the experience as an early celebration of his 15th birthday on March 20.

Luke, who is training as a mechanic on a day-release course from City of Norwich School, said he just loved the feel of driving fast.

Proceeds from a barbecue and sale of charity T-shirts boosted the day's total.