John Simister (15) of Manor Road took first place in his class of Novice Roundabout last month after taking part in six rounds of 18 races at venues throughout the country.

He told the Gazette: "I didn't know at the time, and my dad hadn't told me to stop me getting nervous, but I only had to race one lap!

"I didn't know that until the race actually started. I had built up enough points by that stage that all I had to do was come first in that last lap."

The award comes as a massive improvement after finishing sixth last year.

John, a pupil at Hungerhill School in Edenthorpe, also gained third place in the category of Amateur Runabout, and, despite being a junior, competed with adults, adding to his achievement.

Before getting involved in racing, John skiied recreationally with his father - and still does - at Tyram Lake.

He said: "We used to only jetski recreationally at the lake, until one of the other skiers mentioned racing to us, and said it would be worth me looking into.

"It does mean that I now have to raise the cash for a racing licence, instead of just standard insurance."

John is continuing with his summer's work of gardening and odd jobs to help pay for the funding needed to compete in Europe but is currently looking for sponsorship to help him achieve this aim.

Anyone wishing to help can contact him on 01302 840073.