BOGNOR’S racing sensation, 14-year-old Jordan Cane, swapped his usual racing car for a MINI when he visited Goodwood to highlight safe driving for young people.

Cane, who drives with Team Pelfrey and is the youngest driver in a Formula Car series in the world, knows a thing or two about safe manoeuvring and was keen to help promote driving safety for young people as part of Goodwood’s Young Drivers programme.

Working in partnership with MINI and Michelin, the Young Drivers programme has been developed to give young people under the age of 17 the opportunity to learn techniques and manoeuvres under the supervision of an experienced instructor on the Goodwood motor circuit before they can legally learn to drive.

Motor Circuit Manager, Alan Brewer, said: “We partnered with MINI on this programme as their cars are not only renowned for safety, but offer a fun and energetic drive. The lessons are ideal for teens who just can’t wait to get behind a wheel, as well as for those who want to build confidence before they start learning to drive on the road.”

Cane decided to join motor sport after being inspired at Goodwood’s Festival of Speed a few years ago. Although now competing internationally he is always happy to return to his roots and support other young drivers.

He said: “As a huge fan of Goodwood, returning was great fun especially as I had the chance to drive on the track. As an aspiring racer, it was a huge privilege to drive on such an iconic track where those who I look up to have driven. Driving in the MINI as part of the Young Driver programme was fantastic. It’s such a great car to have fun in and to really get to grips with driving. I would drive it again and again.”

The Young Drivers programme at Goodwood is part of Ultimate Driving, a series of driving experiences which include off-road and performance track experiences. A new ‘Chalk Pit Challenge’ has been introduced to the range of experiences in time for Christmas gifting, and offers an exciting hour of off-roading on the infamously difficult terrain.

All activities are set within Goodwood which has been home to the Duke of Richmond and his family for over 300 years.