A CHAMPION racing driver from Inverkip hopes his dreams of defending his title are not up in smoke after he was left with no engine.

Sottish Formula Ford champ Jordan Gronkowski was at a pre-season warm up at Knockhill Racing Circuit when he was hit by a major setback.

His engine failed after he successfully completed five warm-up laps.

But Jordan, who lives in Inverkip with wife Karen and five-year-old daughter, Holly, is hoping to be back on track by the start of the season.

The successful racer said: "It's a major setback for us, especially after such a successful 2019 season.

"My dad, Harry, and I have put so much into racing over the years so we're hoping to try and retain our title."

Jordan started racing go-karts with his father when he was 15, but the duo have gone from strength to strength and now compete in races all over the UK.

To ensure they can cover the cost of repairs to the car, a Formula Ford 1600, Gronkowski Racing Team launched a special prize draw.

They put up prizes ranging from Knockhill Racing voucher experiences to a full guided-tour race weekend, including passes with behind the scenes access and an overnight stay with breakfast for two, with the draw running until the end of the month.

They also have the backing of Tonino's pizzeria owner, Tony Bonatti, who is one of their sponsors.

Tony, who runs the Italian restaurant at Grey Place, told the Tele: "Jordan and his wife have been loyal customers of ours since we opened, so we were delighted to step in as a sponsor.

"This engine problem is an obvious spanner in the works, but I'm sure they've got all the tools it takes to get back on track.

"Tonino's are happy to continue supporting this local link to the racing world."

(Pictured are Tony, Jordan and Harry)