ROBBIE Gallier of Lympsham could not have wished for a better first year and no better way of celebrating it than at Mansell Raceway at Dunkeswell in Devon.

ROBBIE Gallier of Lympsham could not have wished for a better first year and no better way of celebrating it than at Mansell Raceway at Dunkeswell in Devon.

Just 12 years old in May, Robbie was back to the circuit which saw him take the best novice trophy a year ago. It was also the circuit where he took his first-ever win in September last year.

This time, Robbie not only won the Honda Cadet class, he took an outright cadet win beating all other classes, Comer and WTP that make up the Libre grid. He also took the Honda lap record which had stood for three years.

In his short career, he has achieved much more than some current Formula One drivers did in their first year in karting. In his first ever race, he finished third overall at Clay Pigeon in Dorset. He then went on to take 14 wins four second's, four third places three fourth's and three first novice, also winning one winter series and crowned Celtic champion, an amazing year.

Robbie is pictured with Nigel Mansell, former Formula One world champion on hand to congratulate him with Robbie's father with the trophies. Mansell is always encouraging to all who race at the circuit, especially to the youngsters in the Cadet class which is the seven to 13-year-olds.

Robbie said: " Karting is just the best and Nigel Mansell being at the circuit, just made it special, I have learnt so much watching his cool moves on the track also a big thanks to my team and sponsors for a great year."

Support continues from Demon Tweeks, Talon, Lucas Oil, Prokart Eng, PIAA, South West Karting and WSM Fasteners.