A rising star is emerging as young racer Charlie Clough takes a national championship just two years after he was gifted a go kart for his fifth birthday.

The seven-year-old, from Holmfirth, has won the BKC British go kart championship, having raced all over the country since April and smashing his August rounds.

Parents Olivia and Liam Clough bought Charlie a go kart for his fifth birthday, thinking he might like it as a hobby.

"He took to it really quickly," said his father. "He's competing all over the country, against kids from Mexico and South America. He's ecstatic - it did take a few days to sink in."

Go Kart Champion Charlie Clough, Pictured at Holme Moss, Holmfirth.. Picture by Simon Hulme

Charlie, who came seventh in his first year racing in the age 6-8 category, won the championship in August. He will be presented with a trophy at the end of this year.

Training for the Hepworth Primary School pupil can be intense, said Mr Clough, and the family with little sister Millie, age four, are often on the road at weekends.

"While he enjoys it, we put in the effort and try to make sure he can compete," he said.

"We're both really proud. We love watching him do it. He's always so calm and focused."

Young karting star from Holmfirth takes first British championship at just seven years old