FORMER multiple UK Karting champion Beresford Mandley has qualified fastest in the Red Bull Kart Fight World Series at a circuit in the South-West.

With well over a second a lap in hand over his nearest rivals, the 35-year-old from Minehead is well positioned for a top place at in the UK final with his sights firmly set on the world series.

Mandley stepped into his kart and instantly obliterated 11 other competitors with average lap times of 34.376s.

He was aiming to beat a previously set fastest lap of 35.080s in the first qualifying session and spectators watched in awe as his lap times came up on the screens.

Then, when Mandley took to the track for the final qualifying session, he posted a fastest lap of 33.624s, securing his place in the UK final of the series.

He is now gearing himself up to race at Buckmore Park in Kent on October 27.

The world final is being held in December at a venue yet to be confirmed.

Mandley is sponsored by Gatorz Sunglasses along with other West Somerset businesses.

Mandley’s progress can be followed on www.somersetcountygazette.co.uk or on Gatorz Sunglasses new site – www.Gatorz.co.uk