KIDDERMINSTER'S UK Formula Ford Championship leader Nathan Freke goes into practice this weekend refusing to rest on his laurels in the race for the title.

The next rounds take place at Rockingham on August 12 and 13 - but Freke will be planning ahead by testing at Knockhill for the races there in early September.

Freke, who has 222 points with nearest rivals Peter Dempsey and James Nash on 179 and 164 points respectively, is buzzing with confidence.

"We have the best package and have been consistently quicker than the others in testing and the races," said Freke.

"I am really looking forward to the rest of the season."

Meanwhile, his status as a motor driving `celebrity' was confirmed when he was invited to present awards and answer questions at the Southampton Engineering Training Association awards evening last week.

For more details about Formula Ford and Nathan Freke visit www.ukformulaford.co.uk and www.nathan-freke.co.uk