West Lothian has a proud history of producing motor sport stars - and there’s a young ace hoping to join the ranks.

Twelve-year-old Connor Leishman, from Addiewell, has had an impressive year on the go-karting circuit and is looking to replicate the success of local icons Dario Franchitti, Marino Franchitti, Paul di Resta and Seb Melrose.

The West Calder High School pupil, who represents Bathgate-based Saltire Motorsport under the tutelage of Duncan White, has already racked up more than his fair share of trophies since taking up the sport three years ago and is targeting a future career in motor racing.

After joining Saltire, the young speedster competed in the West of Scotland Kart Club championship at Larkhall last season, finishing an impressive sixth in his first season - and sits third in the standings this year with one race remaining.

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Connor has also taken part in the Northern Karting Federation championship throughout the United Kingdom, finishing eighth in a very competitive 30-driver field which gives him the chance to head to Silverstone later this month.

Proud dad Neil commented: “His uncle bought him a voucher for indoor go-karting a few Christmases ago and he loved it.

“He really enjoyed it but he’s gone to a much higher level since joining Duncan at Saltire Motorsport. He’s been doing well in the WSKC and he’s been racing throughout the UK this year after competing in the NKF to get a wee bit more experience.”

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He added: “Going forward, we’d love to compete more in the UK and add to the experience gained this year.

“We’re not sure quite how it is going to look for next season but he’s enjoying his karting and if we can take a step up in class and compete at a higher level, that would be a good challenge. The season usually runs from February through to November so there’s no rush to make definite plans for next year yet.”

Connor added: “It’s something I really enjoy doing and I’m hoping to just continue going up the ranks.

“The dream would be to have a career in motor sports, to follow guys like Paul di Resta and the Franchitti brothers, but I love the mechanic side of things too so I’d be happy if that’s where I ended up.

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“I enjoy travelling and competing on all the different tracks across the UK, my favourite so far has probably been Rowrah in Cumbria. That was a challenge but I really enjoyed racing there.

“I’ve never been to Silverstone so that is going to be an amazing experience.”

Neil and Connor would like to thank Energen Biogas, Clearwater Industrial Services Brigade Electronics, Scotwaste, MV Commercials and UKCM containers for their continued support.

If anyone is interested in sponsoring Connor, contact Neil directly on 07715 772527.