Lewis Hamilton has become Britain's most successful Formula 1 driver - 20 years after learning his trade in Kent.

The Mercedes racer, 32, scored his record-breaking fourth title in Mexico yesterday, eclipsing Sir Jackie Stewart's three championship victories.

Hamilton started his racing career in karting, regularly competing at the Buckmore Park circuit in Chatham.

The Stevenage-born driver clinched his fourth crown yesterday despite picking up a puncture when he was hit by title rival Sebastian Vettel's Ferrari on the first lap.

Vettel had to finish in the top-two to prevent Hamilton sealing the title, but the German could only manage fourth place.

Hamilton is now level with Vettel and Alain Prost in the all-time list of world champions - behind only Juan Manuel Fangio on five and Michael Schumacher on seven.

In 2008, he demonstrated his McLaren at a DTM meeting at Brands Hatch, and returned to the West Kingsdown circuit in 2011 when his brother, Nic, competed in the Renault UK Clio Cup championship.