Bournemouth Collegiate School pupil James Hedley has been announced as one of the youngest ever British Racing Driver's Club Rising Stars, at only 16 years old.

The Rising Star awards are open to those under the age of 24 from any four-wheel motor racing disciplines; it is a hugely prestigious achievement for James to have under his belt as in effect winners become 'junior members' of the renowned club. The award is given to those who have shown dedication to their sport, with the view to becoming a professional in this field - notable winners include Lewis Hamilton MBE.

James has won this award after an incredibly successful season in the Ginetta Junior Championships, where he won the title (with one race still to go). Racing is in James' blood - his father Gray used to race in the Formula 3 series, and James himself has been carting since he was 8 years old and worked his way through the ranks until he changed tack at 14 to join the Ginetta Junior Championship (placing 8th overall in his first season).

James hopes to continue his racing career by progressing to Formula 4, for which he is already testing, whilst also attempting to recruit sponsors to take with him on this next stage of his career.

Russell Slatford, Head at BCS added: “I am delighted to hear that James has won the prestigious BRDC Rising Star award as James' achievement cannot be understated – to be crowned 2019 Ginetta Junior Champion whilst also studying for GCSEs is beyond impressive. As a School we are thrilled that James has been asked to compete in the Formula 4 International Scholarship next month, and look forward to his future successes.”

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