Gareth James held his nerve to become the 2019 British Superkart champion.

The 39-year-old from Freystrop, on outskirts of Haverfordwest, had led the championship from the first round until the last as he finally followed his dream and clinched the title in Anglesey on the weekend of September 21 and 22.

The British Superkart Championship consists of six rounds with races on tracks at Cadwell Park, Snetterton, Donington, Knockhill in Scotland, and Anglesey.

Five times British Champion Paul Platt, from Warrington, was pressing hard for a sixth title - but going into the last round at Anglesey the points table was extremely close, to win the title James had to win at least one of the three rounds. James finished third in the first race due to engine problems on the Saturday.

On Sunday, James had a new engine installed for the second race, with James’ adrenaline on a high he drove superbly to claim victory, but more importantly he was crowned 2019 British Champion.

It’s been a terrific season for James who also won the 2019 UK Cup at Knockhill Race Circuit, Scotland, and he also broke the lap record around the 1.27-mile track in a breath taking 57 seconds.

Gareth will receive his award in November in Coventry as well as attending the Motorsport UK Awards Evening later in the year.

British champion Gareth James said: “Throughout 2019 none of this would have been possible without the support of my mechanics Ryan Joshua and Peter Lock and the total support of my family, I appreciate their help.

“I’d like to thank the Anderson Racing Team who are a Kart Manufacturer based in West Yorkshire. The kart has a 250cc Italian Works Factory Tuned Race Engine.”

James would also like to thank his generous sponsors: Village Autos, Merlin Motors, TBS Skip Hire, Lawrence Landfill and Jeff James Plant Hire.

Anyone wishing to sponsor James can telephone the new champion on 07814 861951.