A DRIVER who beat Lewis Hamilton's lap record at one of country's most prestigious karting circuits is helping encourage the stars of the future with the launch of a new junior drivers' club in Barnsley.
The former F1 World Champion was the fastest driver ever to grace the Buckmore Park circuit in Kent - until Amanda Lassu smashed his record.
Now Amanda, who works at Tyke Racing on Beevor Street, Barnsley, is using her experience to help encourage other youngsters to take up the sport.
The Saturday morning Junior Drivers' Club will give 11-14-year-olds the chance to get behind the wheel of a high-tech kart - even if they have never driven before.
Then after some tuition in safe driving, they will be able to head out onto the track to compete against each other to set lap records.
Amanda - who has a mantelpiece full of trophies from her career in karting - said: "This new club will give children the chance to have a go at karting in a professional and safe environment.
"We will provide everything the young drivers need to get out on the track and enjoy themselves."
