As Lewis Hamilton reels off the back of his second F1 title, a youngster from Thornham is following in his shadow.

Piers Henderson, 10, won the TVKC PF International Cadet Championship in karting.

And Henderson can claim he reached the milestone quicker than Hamilton, who won the title aged 11 in 1996.

He fought adversity, having to drive the last rounds of the series without his race engine which required repairing - instead racing with his practice engine, 20pc down on power.

Piers said: 'It was hard as people had a lot more power and pass me on the straights.

'But I am so happy, I'm a big fan of Hamilton and it makes me feel even more excited knowing that I have won the same title as him.'

Piers' father, Steve Henderson, said: 'He had the chance to finish in the top 10 in the national LGM championship this year, but sacrificed it so he could do the last TVKC race on the same day and win the title.

'He had a really mature drive, he only needed 35th place out of 36, but he had to stay out on track, not get in any trouble, which he did do and he showed the speed to get some overtakes in and finish 8th.

'The speed he has shown despite all of the difficulties he has faced, has been phenomenal.'

Next year Piers will drive both the LGM and Super One national championships in karts that can reach 60mph.

Piers is staying level headed, and is aiming for a top five finish in what will be tougher categories.

He has mapped out his future to include a move into cars with the Ginetta series aged 14, single seaters at 15, and then the ultimate drive for an F1 team.

The national championships come at a costly price with an initial fee of £2,500 for Super One followed by £400 per race.

The LGM series costs £600 up front then £150 per race.

Hayes and Storrs solicitors and Tec Tamers have pledged their continuing support due to his successes.

Further sponsors would be welcome and contact details can be found at www.piershenderson.com

Do you know any young sport stars? Email Kieran.Lynch@archant.co.uk