FOLLOWING a highly successful season, the participants of the Dorset Young People’s Karting Project received their personal achievement accreditation and trophies during a presentation held at the Weymouth Police Station Social Club.

The project is run with the full assistance help of Clay Pigeon Raceway, the former race circuit of Jenson Button, and works with young people from varied backgrounds,with the aim of developing and enhancing their confidence, self-esteem, teamwork and interpersonal skills.

Youngsters have worked all season towards a formal and recognised accreditation award showing that they can develop skills and abilities both on and off the track which help them in other aspects of their lives.including at home, school and in society.

The project, running since 1992, also works with Dorset Young Carers to allow young people who care in the community to experience the thrill of karting.

Clay Pigeon Raceway provides facilities and support to the project free of charge, is the only recognised national racetrack in the UK that assists such a project.

Carla Harper, a student at Wey Valley School, said: “I was really excited to be taking part as this type of opportunity doesn’t come around very often. I loved the adrenaline rush. It is definitely one of the best things I have ever done.”

Katrina Mills, whose son Jenson also took part, said: “Karting has been great for Jenson. It brought all the young people together and encouraged them to be part of a team, even the quieter members.

“Jenson has loved the whole experience and couldn’t wait for Thursdays to come around. He loved the responsibility and is more confident for it.

“For parents, it was great to know our children were in safe hands, learning skills they will use later in life.

“The presentation evening was a great way to finish the season. Many thanks go to the staff involved for making this so memorable.”

Meanwhile, another Wey Valley School pupil, Nicholas Cooke, added: “I was really nervous before the first session but I am so glad I went as this is the best thing I have ever done.”

The Best Male Driver award went to Alex Downes and the Best Female Driver was Amber Clements.

Alexandra Stevenson and Sean Roberts were the Most Improved Female Driver and the Most Improved Male Driver respectively.

Sportsman of the Year was Callum Mullins, Personality of the Year went to Sean Roberts, Jenson Mills received The Committee Award for Endeavour and Steve Collins was named Clubman of the Year.

Collins, the project leader, said: “This has been the most successful season to date. It has been great watching the young people develop both on and off the track.

“The karting committee was delighted with the positive feedback received at the presentation evening from young people and parents alike.

“It underlines how positive and worthwhile this project is and the impact it can have on those involved.

“All the young people involved deserve immense credit for their development throughout the season. The quality of racing was outstanding.”

The evening was also attended by family members, directors of Clay Pigeon Raceway, staff from Dorchester Youth Centre, Wey Valley School and Sports College and Dorset Police.

For further information, contact Steve Collins on 07725560924.