Race ace James Nicholls aims to set the pace

James Nicholls, 21, from Whittington, Oswestry, took part in three rounds of the championship last year, which saw him gain two third places and one runners-up spot.

This year, Nicholls has his eyes set on the top spot of the podium, competing in an Alfa Romeo 147. Nicholls said: "I am very excited to compete in the championship this year.

"Setting a goal is not the main thing, it is deciding how you will go about achieving it and staying with that plan."

Previously used as an ex-Tim Harvey BTCC touring car, the vehicle has had the likes of David Pinkey and Carl Foggarty behind the wheel.

Nicholls added: "After the success I had last year in only my first year competing in cars, and with the car still under development we are very hopeful for this year.

"We will be aiming for the top step of the podium all the way, and overall aiming for the championship win.

"Obviously, for this I will need support from sponsors, which I am still seeking."

Nicholls' career began in karting at the age of 11 and help from family and friends enabled him to acquire his first pro kart.

Showing a flair for the sport, Nicholls competed in karting until 2012 with many podium, race wins and fastest laps to his name.

Having a passion for cars and racing from a young age, Nicholls studied motor vehicle mechanics at college.

This lead him to completing apprenticeships with Vauxhall and Italian car specialists Allitalia – who provided him with his car.

Nicholls added: "I will need support from sponsors, the on-going support from my family and friends, but most importantly the support from Allitalia.

"They allow me the use of their car and the support from them on race weekends. Sol-X, who sponsored me last year, will hopefully be supporting me this year.

"I have also gained one sponsor, Alfabook, an Alfa Romeo enthusiasts and owners club."

The 2016 Alfa Romeo Championship runs from April until September.

The championship kicks off at Snetterton Circuit, Norfolk, on April 2 and 3 before the final meeting at Rockingham in Corby on September 17 and 18.

Nicholls said: "Last year was a big learning curve as car racing is very different from karting.

"However, many skills are transferable so this helped me to develop quickly and be competitive straight away.

"As for the car, we have learnt the weak spots and will spend the time leading up to the start of the season making sure these are eliminated."

For further information visit www.crowdfunder.co.uk/james-nicholls-racing.