A TEENAGE rallycross driver who drove a car for the first time just one year ago has already clocked up four national awards.

Luke Constantine, a Year 10 student at Richmond School and Sixth Form College, is the youngest British Trials and Rally Drivers Association (BTDRA) champion in history, astounding the racing fraternity with his talent and incredible haul of four national championships and a further 23 competition trophies.

Luke, 15, was crowned Clubmans Rallycross Champion, Star of the Future Winner, Newcomer of the Year and Gold Star Winner at the recent BTRDA awards. He also won all nine Clubman events in 2018.

Luke comes from a long line of rallycross drivers – his father Mark, uncle Andrew, brother Tom and cousin James are all keen rallycross competitors.

Luke said: “Twelve months ago, when I first sat behind the wheel, I was planning it to be a learning year, to get used to the tracks and the car.

"I could never have imagined that I would have achieved so much. "However, while it has been an awesome year, my plan is to look ahead to the 2019 season. I obviously want to win, but I don’t want to get over confident and push the boundaries too far. I will carry on focusing on being the best I can be and hopefully the string of results can continue."

Luke’s dad, Mark Constantine, said: “It has been incredible to watch Luke advance his driving expertise in such a short space of time.

"Our family are so proud of not only his success, but of his sheer commitment and hard work, and how he puts in every ounce of energy, drive and focus to reach the top in his class.

"We are so grateful to Luke’s sponsors: Victoria Garage Richmond, Teesside Karting, CCF Builders Merchants, Wray Joinery, Constantine Building Services, AVL and Royal Purple who make it possible for Luke to commit to the fortnightly race competitions. We are also really appreciative of our friends, family, the sponsors and Richmond School who have been wonderful in their support of Luke.”

Luke was recently the BTRDA’s guest of honour at the prestigious Autosports International Show at the NEC, Birmingham. He was invited to show his winning Suzuki Swift 1300 car and rubbed shoulders with Formula One drivers Lando Norris and Carlos Sainz.

Tony Potter, Richmond School's head of community sport, said: "It is fantastic that Luke is competing at elite level at such an early age and achieving best in class after only one year behind the wheel. He undoubtedly has bags of talent which is supported with his determined and positive attitude."