FORMULA One fans in Bolton - and their sons - fulfilled a lifelong dream when they got behind the wheel of a racing car driven by Michael Schumacher.

Shoppers at the new ASDA store at Burnden Park saw the German world champion's car over the weekend and were able to have a go on a race simulator as part of a two-day event to raise money for the NSPCC.

The £250,000 Ferrari was raced by Schumacher in 2003 when he won his sixth consecutive title.

The car, which can reach 235mph, was shipped over from Italy as part of a promotional campaign by tyre maker Equipe, who work closely with Schumacher's tyre manufacturer Bridgestone.

Bernard Gannon, from Farnworth, whose son Aaron, aged three, got behind the wheel of the car, said: "He was so excited when I told him I was going to take him to see a real race car.

"It's not every day you get so close to a Formula One car."

Nathan Chatwin, aged six, said: "It was a bit uncomfortable and small to sit in but it was a dream come true.

"My dad and I watch the Formula One races on TV and we are big fans of Michael Schumacher."