A 10-year-old boy aims to follow in the footsteps of Formula One world champions Lewis Hamilton and Jenson Button.

Cruz Speakman, who was born in Costa Blanca in Spain but is looking to move back to Lowton where his mum is from, finished second in the junior regional Campeonato CKCV karting championship near Valencia last year.

He has ambitions of competing in the Super One series karting like the British champions did in their youth and races with number 44 on his kart like Lewis Hamilton has on his car when he is competing.

Cruz, who has been behind a wheel since the age of five, said: “I am reading Lewis Hamilton’s story now; he was just like me growing up in that his dad had to work hard to provide him with what he had, like mine does.

“As well as number 44, I also use 666 because I am known on the track as 'el Diablo' which in Spanish means 'the devil' as everyone says I am a little devil on the track.”

Cruz’s dad, carpenter Kevin, who is from Golborne, also finished second in the same regional championship in Spain from 1998 to 1999.

The family has set up Touchwood Racing; a team for Cruz to compete for.

His mum, teacher Suzanne, added: “As parents we are delighted with our son’s achievements but are more proud of the fight and determination he showed throughout last year's championship.

“Cruz was up against drivers of big teams with the best equipment, mechanics and engines, and with us being on a tight budget, we could not provide the same for him.

“I think with his determination, the support of his family and the community he can live his dream of becoming a Formula One star.”

A crowdfunding page has been set up to help finance the maintenance of Cruz's kart and other costs like travelling.

To donate to Cruz's page visit bit.ly/2tnWKqk.