Ayrton Simmons has been recognised by the British Racing Drivers Club (BRDC) as one of the rising stars in the sport.

The decision was made on April 5 after a meeting with officials at the BRDC headquarters at Silverstone, with Simmons joining many greats to have held the status.

Simmons, from Epping, commented: “After giving my career absolutely everything since I began racing go-karts at the age of five, I am absolutely delighted to be recognised by an elite club.

“When you see the list of names displayed at the BRDC clubhouse at Silverstone it is very, very moving. The list of BRDC membership names there range from many greats such as Stirling Moss, Jim Clark, Jackie Stewart, Nigel Mansell, Derek Warwick, James Hunt and Lewis Hamilton. It is such an honour for me to be part of such a historic and special club, I’m delighted.

“I would like to thank everybody who has helped me on my journey including my family, DWS Ltd, Adrian Flux and many other who know who they are.”

BRDC club operations executive Luke Evans said: “Over the past few seasons, the club’s scouts have been following Ayrton’s progress with great interest and it has been very pleasing to see him establish himself as a front runner in two of the country’s most high profile junior single seater championships.

“It is hoped that Ayrton will continue climbing up the ranks of the sport and in due course qualify for full membership of the BRDC, something which he has a clear determination to achieve. We wish Ayrton the very best of luck in this year’s BRDC British Formula 3 Championship and look forward to welcoming him and his supporters to the clubhouse throughout the course of the season.”