A YOUNG karter bidding to follow in Lewis Hamilton's tyre tracks is a step closer to achieving his dream.

Devon Giles, a six-year-old who it is thought has autism and ADHD, grows in confidence when he gets behind the wheel at Swindon Karting Arena.

He featured on the Adver's Me and My Motor page last month, where his mum Sam spoke of her boy’s dream to go to the Super 1 National Kart Championships next year. Sponsors were quick to get in touch and help him realise his ambition.

Sam, from Royal Wootton Bassett, said: “When I told Devon we were going he started crying, he was so happy, he was like ‘I’m going to make new friends’. He’s done so well this year and he deserves this, there were a lot of happy tears.

“I’ve got a few people on board who are wanting to help Devon, they have been a massive support, which has been amazing.

“Malthouse Creations have put graphics on my van and they’re going to do the same to Devon’s helmet and kart. It’s amazing.

“I had a friend who set up her own business called Rosie’s Craft Shack. She's made a t-shirt with Devon’s logo on it. A photographer, Mark Hall, has offered me photos for free and gave some financial contributions. Then a friend from Swindon Karting Arena, who is also from RyanJ Photos, is also sponsoring Devon.

“And because of all this we’re now able to do Super 1, which is a really renowned championship, so it’s really great we’re getting that opportunity. Devon is so excited.”

Little Miss Motor Sport and DSD Builders have also backed Devon.

Competing in the sport is a big financial commitment and the funds will go towards helmets, boots, racing suits and entry fees.

Communicating with others is a challenge for Devon but when he goes karting it helps him to make friends. His interest in motorsport began when he went to Swindon Karting Arena at Wroughton as he was struggling at school with bad separation anxiety.

Lockdown delayed his first race until August and kindness in the community has made it possible for him to keep going.

“We’re so lucky that all these people have helped us,” Sam said.

“I can’t express my gratefulness to everyone especially because of the situation we’re all in with Covid. It’s a financial strain for everyone, so to see the community come together and support a local superstar, hopefully, it’s really touching, it’s restored my faith in humanity.

“This is really important for Devon, he’s lost without it. It changes him as a person. His friends are there and it’s his outlet. It’s made a real difference to him.”