RACER Harry Hickton produced a sensational performance to win the 2024 Vertu Motors Mini Challenge trophy in a thrilling finale at Brands Hatch.

The 18-year-old Westbourne Motorsport driver, from Kimpton, was second in the standings before the event, 31 points adrift of frontrunner Sam Gornall.

But a fine display of driving throughout the weekend (November 2 and 3) saw Hickton overturn the deficit to triumph by two points.

He gained a slender advantage after the first two races – including his fifth win of the season – before he achieved his first pole position for the finale, scoring three bonus points in the process..

Hickton ended up finishing the final face in third, with teammate Gornall taking the chequered flag, but that was enough for him to secure the drivers' title.

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“I’m over the moon - it hasn’t quite sunk in that I’m champion yet,” said Hickton, who is backed by Hysons Chartered Accountants, The Platinum Lift Company, Vernham Labels, Addventure, Woodstock, Hippo Campers and Brandfixx.

“This season has just been an absolute rollercoaster in terms of results and emotions so to be standing here with the title is beyond my wildest dreams.

“Despite scoring five wins and a further six podiums, I’ve had so much bad luck this season and it just felt like it wasn’t going to be my year.

“But, I knew that while there was a chance I had to throw everything I had at it and thankfully we managed to turn it around this weekend.

“As soon as we hit the track on Friday I had a good feeling with the car and the pace we had throughout the event was mega.

“Of course it wasn’t easy and there were a few moments where I thought it was slipping away but I just tried to stay as calm as possible.

“I’ve just got to say a massive thank you to Westbourne Motorsport for all of their support this year and to all of my amazing sponsors, family and friends.

“Without any of them I wouldn’t be standing here as the champion - this is as much their title as it is mine.

“I’m just absolutely lost for words and so happy!

“I can’t describe the feeling I’ve got; winning this championship means everything and hopefully it can be the springboard for even more success in the years to come.”