ASHLEY England is enjoying the thrills and excitement of stock-car racing at the age of 12 and is set to compete in the Mini Stocks' World Cup at Barford Raceway near Barnard Castle on Sunday.

Ashley, from Barras, South Stainmore, took up the sport two months ago.

His father, Rob England, is a former kart racing champion and motocross rider who became interested in stock car racing when the family moved next door to John Dawson, the sport's well-known commentator. Rob and his wife Mandy began marshalling at events and he considered buying a Formula 2 car to try the sport himself until Ashley saw the Mini Stocks and was keen to have a go.

After buying and fitting out a car for about £1,500, Ashley has shown plenty of potential so far in the 1,000cc Mini which is regulated with a restrictor in the carburettor to allow a top speed of 40-45mph.

The cars are allowed to "tap and spin" to take the inside race line as Ashley found out when put into the stadium fence at 30mph. But he is looking forward to his biggest challenge with the World Cup meeting at Barford where he will test himself against the best.