Jack Hawksworth said it was a “huge honour” to be awarded the coveted Rising Star accolade by the British Racing Drivers’ Club (BRDC).

The talented Cullingworth speed demon joins an organisation that includes members of the calibre of F1 world champions Lewis Hamilton, Jenson Button, Sir Jackie Stewart and Damon Hill.

Hawksworth graduated into single-seater karts this year, finishing fourth in the fiercely-contested Formula Renault UK Championship in his first season.

Aside from now carrying the kudos of the club’s illustrious badge – worn with pride by some of the country’s most eminent sporting heroes – Jack will benefit from the hospitality of the plush BRDC clubhouse at Silverstone on race weekends, assuring him of what he describes as the “best seats in the house” for the British Grand Prix and other major events at the famous Northants track.

Hawksworth said: “Only a certain number of drivers are appointed each year, so it’s a real recognition to be one of those that the BRDC deems the most promising. To be noticed by them is brilliant.”