The Bolton News:

YOUNG racing drivers made a pit stop in Bolton to celebrate their achievements in the fast lane.

Pupils from UTC Bolton showcased the racing car they designed and built before testing it on the what is described as Europe's fastest circuits to former cabinet minister Lord Kenneth Baker.

They are among ambitious young people taking part in national schools racing car challenge.

The Bolton News:

The first race took place in July on the Rockingham Race Circuit ­— and now the young people are hoping to get behind the wheel of their car in the International Final next month.

The project was to promote greener energies and excite young people about science, technology, engineering and maths.

Lord Baker was shown around the car by the pupils, which is being finely tuned for their next race.

Lord Baker said: "Designing, working in teams, problem solving­— it's all about the jobs of the future.

"The students are treated like adults; here they receive a practical and useful education which is geared towards the workplace.

"I am so pleased to see competent, articulate youngsters with a real sense of achievement. I am going back to London very happy."

The Bolton News:

Chris Beard, UTC Assistant Principle, added: "It is great to showcase all the students' hard work and achievements. We are delighted that Lord Baker has come to meet everyone who has been involved in the project and to see how inspired the children are.

"This project has already had a huge impact on the students and made them think about their future careers, and we are so thankful for receiving the bursary from Siemens to allow this to happen."

Alex Pettener, Siemens Engineer who helped the team, said: "It is brilliant to see UTC and the project getting the attention they deserve. Quite often these things go under the radar and it is good to make the Greenpower Challenge visible to the local community ­— these children are the future of our society."