BOURTON'S Sam Mitchell has clinched the 2013 HSCC Historic Formula Ford Championship with a round to go.

Mitchell, an 18-year-old sixth form student at the Cotswold School and in only his first full year of racing, overcame problems to win the penultimate round of the series at Brands Hatch which sealed the title.

Mitchell lined up in pole position on the grid and kept his cool to get a good start, leading into Paddock Hill bend.

Rival Josh West made a challenge on Sam's inner into Druids, however he went into a spin on the exit, making contact with Sam who had nowhere to go.

Minor damage to the bodywork and steering arm meant Sam rejoined the race in fifth place, but he quickly set about hunting down the leading group.

A safety car period in mid-race bunched the pack up once more and on the restart Sam was on the ball quickly to race into second.

Lap by lap he closed on the leader David Wild and eventually made his move to overtake at Paddock Hill bend.

Once in the lead, Sam looked impregnable and crossed the line with not only a race victory but the 2013 Historic Formula Ford Championship in the bag.

Sam would like to thank Rest Express for their sponsorship this year and also his parents Westie and Clare Mitchell for their support.

He will next be seen in action at the HSCC Silverstone Finals on Saturday (October 19) enjoying a pressure-free race.