An amateur racing driver from Epsom is hoping to hit the big time after embarking on a series of semi-professional races this year.

Laurie Grant from Epsom Downs managed to qualify for a 38 car race at Rockingham on Sunday April 17, finishing seventh in one of the races, despite only taking up the sport last year.

The 43-year-old, who takes part in the Mazda MX five championships, has designs to continue his hobby and become a professional driver in the future.

He said: “It was extremely intimidating at first, but I love the sport and have always been into racing.

“I was disappointed to get seventh, but we have more races this year so the aim is to impress.

“I was slightly unfortunate because we had some technical problems with the steering.

“Ultimately I want to get sponsored and move up to a more professional race over the next couple of years.

Mr Grant says that his wife Debbie has been very supportive despite the odd concern about safety.

He added: “She does worry a bit, but other than that she has been a brilliant supporter.

Toro Motorsport Team consists of driver Mr Grant, who runs an electrical company, and his two friends, mechanics Paul Down and Martin Scott.

It is the team’s second year racing, but their first full season in the Mazda, which has a maximum speed of 120mph.

Mr Down said: “We need to work on the engine a bit, but I think we have a good chance of breaking into the top 10 in the next few races.

“Laurie really wants to go professional; he is a good driver and has the determination.”

The trio, who have spent £7,000 on building the car and £7,000 on annual running costs, are hoping to get the best position possible to attract sponsors to help shoulder the financial strain.

Mr Down added: “We need to do well in the next few races to give ourselves a chance of getting sponsorship to help with the costs.

“It is a steep learning curve in the Mazda, but we are going to give it our best shot.”

The Mazda Championship was set up in 2008 and caters specifically for Mazda MAX five’s, all of which must meet exactly the same specifications.

To find out more visit http://www.ma5daracing.com