A North-East racing circuit has undergone a £50,000 expansion to make it suitable for Formula Three racing.

Teesside Karting, near Redcar, east Cleveland, had the longest and fastest karting track in the UK, which has now been extended by 1.2 miles.

"This is the most exciting development in motor sport for many, many years," said Bob Pope, founder and director of circuit operators Teesside Karting.

"It will attract the best amateur motor sports competitors to Teesside by placing the thrills of racing within the price range of enthusiasts of all abilities, from karts to motorbikes and now to Clubman cars.''

A family restaurant and bar overlooking the circuit, and meeting rooms have been opened as part of the first phase of improvements.

Last year, the circuit attracted more than 30,000 drivers - a figure it expects to double this year.

A Mini Dream Club has been launched which lets children as young as 12 drive high performance Mini Cooper cars.

Mr Pope paid tribute to Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council, for granting permission for the scheme.

Cars including 245hp Seat Leon Coupe racing cars, with four point safety harness, and Mini Coopers are available to drive at the circuit, as well as rally cars, 4x4s, off-road karts, and quad bikes.

Mr Pope said: "We are bringing back the era of affordable motor sport - where people can get behind the wheel of a racing car on a fast, challenging circuit for about half the cost of anywhere else."