Kate ScotterHe may only be six years old but young Rio Jones is hoping to follow in the footsteps of his F1 hero Lewis Hamilton.The rookie from Hellesdon only started karting at the Karttrack in Cromer seven weeks ago and has already made an impression, leading many to believe he could have a future in motor sport.Kate Scotter

He may only be six years old but young Rio Jones is hoping to follow in the footsteps of his F1 hero Lewis Hamilton.

The rookie from Hellesdon only started karting at the Karttrack in Cromer seven weeks ago and has already made an impression, leading many to believe he could have a future in motor sport.

In just the handful of weeks since he first got in a go-kart, he has slashed his lap time from one minute 53 seconds to just 38 seconds - just four seconds off the lap record for the 500m track.

But for young Rio to be able to pursue the sport, the talented youngster needs sponsors to help fund kit, kart upkeep and training.

Today, an appeal was put out to companies and organisations to come forward to help the Kinsale Infant School pupil realise his dream.

His dad Jason Jones, 30, a carpenter, said: 'He is amazing and very talented - everyone down at the track has been saying how good he is and how with that sort of talent he could go very far.

'He loves it and watches all the Grand Prix races when they are on. He is always watching Lewis Hamilton on You Tube.

'He could go all the way if we can get backing and support for him.'

At the moment, Rio drives a Honda Biz Kart but he is now moving up to a Project One Racing Kart.

The new kart, however, cost his parents, who also have a two-year-old daughter Ela, �1,500.

It is hoped he could get funding towards a box trailer for kart travel, a Motor Sports Association (MSA) kart racing suit and helmet, entry fees and track practice.

Lee Beauchamp, from Karttrack, who is going to do one-to-one coaching with Rio, said: 'He is very talented and if he sticks with it, he could go a very, very long way.

'I've been here for six or seven years and I have never seen a kid progress as quickly as him.'

Rio's hero Hamilton, the 2008 F1 World Champion, started kart racing when he was six years old.

Anyone who is interested in sponsoring Rio, should contact his dad Mr Jones on 07917 417333 or email eljaycarpenters@aol.com

For more information about Cromer's Karttrack, go to www.karttrak.co.uk

Has your child got superstar potential? Call reporter Kate Scotter on 01603 772326 or email kate.scotter@archant.co.uk