Thomas Merritt took a double win in the Total Karting Zero Southern Championship at Rye House on Sunday.

Merritt, from Kings Hill, now leads the junior light class with one round to go, having only just moved up from the cadets.

He was fastest in practice, took pole position and won the pre-final and final, leading both races from start to finish against some tough competition.

Merritt said: “It’s been a fantastic weekend and I am delighted to have secured another win.

“The racing was really competitive, and I had to battle hard at times, so I am thrilled to have come away with the top spot on the podium.

“I’d like to thank Rob Smedley (series founder) and the entire team at TKZ for a great weekend.

“I would also like to thank my family, especially my dad who is dedicating so much of his time to managing me – I couldn’t do it without him.”

Merritt, who attends Mascalls Academy in Paddock Wood, has also been using the summer holidays to test a Fiesta Junior with Race Car Consultants, including testing at Brands Hatch.

He is aiming to make the transition into cars next year and hopes to compete in the BRSCC Fiesta Junior Championship in 2024.