A YOUNG Eden go-karter, who has found a way to connect with the world despite his autism, is racing towards stardom on national television.

Fenn Chapman, 10, from Tebay, starred in the Channel 4 programme ‘0-60mph, Britain’s fastest kids’, on Sunday night which featured children who were pursuing their Formula One dreams on the go-kart track.

Fenn, who is diagnosed with autism, has never shown as much interest in anything else other than cars and motors.

“Since Fenn was little he was completely obsessed with cars. He never watched cartoons but he loved Top Gear”, his father, also called Fenn Chapman, said. “He used to make you see cars that were being sold. You couldn’t point out the wrong car to him. At two years old, he would know.”

Mr Chapman, who has no previous experience of cars or motorsports, has been training his son for the past five years and since the youngster started go-karting, life has changed for him.

“He has come out of his shell more and he is happier,” Mr Chapman said. “Go-karting gives him a way to relax, a way he can be comfortable.”

The cost of go-karting took Fenn’s family by surprise but they are keen to support their son’s hobby.

“Fenn is a good driver. Whenever I can afford it, I want to get some professional training for him,” said Mr Chapman. “I had no idea how expensive go-karting was, but I want to help my son. I want to do this for him.”

James Varley, managing director of Morecambe Metals, which has started sponsoring Fenn, said: “Last year I offered to make a small donation to help Fenn and his family on their incredible journey which will one day hopefully end up with Fenn achieving his dream of becoming a F1 driver.

“The time and effort they put into achieving their dream is inspirational. They are up against big teams with lots of sponsorship and resources. Fenn Jnr is a remarkable young man with bags of talent and determination, who truly deserves every chance he can get to further his progress in motorsport racing. “

Fenn’s family has set up a Gofundme page, visit: https://www.gofundme.com/2bwrcbw?ssid=812325592&pos=1