A BUDDING county kart racer completed his second year in the British Rental Kart Championship (BRKC) with an impressive fifth place out of a field of 128 drivers.

Ryan Smtih confirmed his place among the top five best kart racing drivers in Britain with an eighth place finish in the final round of the year at Ellough Park in Suffolk.

The 18-year-old, who lives in West Barns, amassed 112 points over six rounds, his highest finish of third coming in round two at Buckmore Park. He also had a further three top-10 finishes in Bournemouth, Edinburgh and Suffolk.

Smith races out of Raceland, near Gladsmuir, where he also works as a part time race marshal. He he retained his winter championship at the track and is once again leading the summer championship as he looks to claim another title.

His busy racing period then saw him compete at Whilton Mill in Northampton last Sunday in the British Schools Karting Championship final, after his team from Edinburgh College were crowned Scottish Champions at the regional round at Knockhill in Fife.

Smith's performance last Sunday saw him finish fourth in the championship, which saw about 500 schools compete.

While studying at Edinburgh College, Smith hopes to progress his career and with the sport costly to compete in he requires sponsorship for next year to help with costs. For more information or to sponsor Smith contact him by emailing ryansmith.racing@gmail.com