St Michael's High School go-karting team was recently targeted by thieves who broke into a garage at the school and also stole helmets and suits.

Two of the go-karts were found badly damaged in Astley Village and have been returned to the club.

But club bosses say the thefts didn't stop the youngsters from putting in a shining performance at a race meeting at Ellesmere Port where the team picked up four trophies.

David Hull, team leader at the club, said: "I'm very grateful to the police and the people from Astley Village.

"We were not expecting to see any of the karts again and it's great to have two of them, even though they are damaged and will need to have some repair work done to them.

"The team put in a great performance on the weekend and didn't let the recent events get in the way of success."

The race at Hooton Park, Ellesmere Port, saw James Hull pick up a trophy in Class 7, coming in a well-deserved fifth place followed by Daniel Sargent in 10th, Chris Whiteside 19th, Mark Davy 21st, and Chris Scott in 25th place.

In Class 14, five drivers from the team made their mark with Ryan Leighton coming in first place, Sarah Howard in 13th whereas Matthew Brooking came 22nd, Ben Brown in 25th and Jack Kirton in 20th.

Class 12 saw the smallest grid of the day with drivers Rachel Hull in 5th, Sarah Howard sixth and Luke Davy in seventh place.

A further two trophies came from class 11 in which Rebecca Whiteside came in third place and Martin Bramwell in fourth place.

In the same race, Thomas Sargent came sixth and Nicola Whiteside in a well-deserved seventh place.

The club has now grown to 17 qualified drivers and is on the look out for businesses willing to sponsor them to build up a bigger pool of karts for children to use at race meetings.

If you are interested in sponsoring the team phone David Hull on 01257 412699.