JOSH Malin won the Class B MaX5 Racing Championship at Silverstone – 13 years after being told he would not be able to become a racing driver.

The Ferndown Upper School pupil was diagnosed with type one diabetes at the age of four and thought his racing dream had gone.

But 13 years on, Malin defied medics to seal title glory in his Mazda MX5.

Malin said: “Despite being told by a doctor that I would not become a racing driver due to my diabetes, I continued to harbour a desire to try and spent a lot of time on a simulator at home.

"As luck would have it, the founder of the MaX5 Racing Championship moved in next door and became a family friend. He saw my performance on the simulator and encouraged me to try racing in a real car.

“The atmosphere at the races creates a real buzz. It is great to be a part of a close-knit community where racers help one another. My family are supportive and come to as many of my races as possible.

"Although due to financial constraints motor racing is currently just a hobby for me, I am seeking sponsorship to help me to progress in the sport.”