A BRIDPORT group which aims to get young people involved in motorsport says it is desperate for new members after struggling through the pandemic.

Bridport Bandits Autograss racing club was set up about 25 years ago at Bridport Youth & Community Centre in Gundry Lane.

It offers children aged 12-18 the opportunity to prepare cars and compete in motorsport racing.

The group's members are a part of the Wessex league of the Southern Autograss Club and race once a month at Bearley Raceway near the A303. 

At the end of every year, members are taken to a national event where ladies and juniors race at a big event in the country and spend a weekend racing against the best in the country.

Bridport Bandits, which is entirely self-funded, aims to offer mechanical skills including fabrication, engine and transmission mechanics and driver training.

All committee members and volunteers who run the club are track car drivers themselves and say they 'need to get noticed again' after battling through the effects of the pandemic.

"The club has managed to survive through Covid and we are now looking to attract more members, volunteers and sponsors to keep this very unique club going," said club secretary Rachel Broom.

"Many of our ex-members have gone on to have jobs and businesses in the motor trade and we have even given up some of our workshop space for the Bridport Food Bank - we really are a community asset. 

"So if your child is into racing, mechanics, engines or just wants to try something different, come down and join in the fun."

Anyone interested in joining the club can speak to the team and drop into workshop nights which take place on Mondays and Thursdays between 7pm and 9pm.

Chairman John Wells and Ms Broom can also be contacted on 07837 926702 or rachelbroom2007@btinternet.com