Radlett racer Alex Jones is relishing the chance to take on Cadwell Park, nicknamed the mini-Nürburgring, in the next round of the Formula Vee Championship.

The 22-year-old was thrust into the spotlight in round two of the championship at Croft and came through with flying colours.

Jones had planned to do some testing with Bears Motorsport but was too late booking his spot. He still travelled to the north Yorkshire track to experience a new circuit and to glean what he could from the team.

His plans were quickly thrown into disarray when his team-mate came off the track in practice and couldn’t suit up for the second session.

“I was excited and nervous – I always am – when I know I’m going to race. But I was a little bit more nervous going up, as it was a new track for me,” he said.

Thrust into the cockpit, Jones only got four laps of practice before qualifying, where he struggled through the first sector. Still, he managed to seal 14th-placed starts for both of the weekend’s races.

Gearbox problems plagued his first race as he dropped to last place. An overtaking manoeuvre at Bancroft, the track’s fastest corner, preceded a spin, which put Jones back down the order. He did, however, manage to recover and bring the car home in 13th place.

After ironing out of the problems, Jones got a good start in race two and moved up six places into eighth. A battle with Jesse Chamberlain ensued, one that Jones lost, but he still secured his best Formula Vee finish to date, crossing the line in ninth.

“Knowing I can be in the top 10, I’m excited for Cadwell,” said Jones after the race.

“Due to it being known as the mini-Nürburgring, I know I need to be careful, but I’m like a little kid getting ready for it.

“It’s a mega track, and I can’t wait to be racing on it.”