A BUDDING Michael Schumacher is taking the motor racing world by storm.

Edwin Jowsey, a driver in the Classic Racing Cars Formula Two championship, has recently returned from a successful stint in Belgium - his first competitve race outside Britain.

The 16-year-old - behind the wheel of the Brabham - claimed his first international race success at the challenging Formula One circuit at Spa.

Spa is regarded as the fastest track in the world, with lots of sharp bends.

Jowsey was always in good shape and first he gained pole position in qualifying before taking the race by storm the following day.

And his father, Cliff, indicated that it was a tough challenge which his son successfuly came through.

"He was giving away a lot of horse power," said Mr Jowsey. "He was also running on a treaded tyre when a lot of other cars close to him were running on slicks, meaning the other cars were a lot faster on corners.

"But nevertheless Edwin drove from the front to capture the lead. He really did exceptionally."

Edwin is a pupil at the Fylinghall school in Robin Hoods Bay and he has already taken part in a number of races up and down the country.

Just last weekend he was racing at the Silverstone circuit, where he enjoyed more joy.

His ambition is to eventually make the step up to Formula One and his father is convinced there is every chance he could do that.

"When we go to all of these places the older drivers cannot believe how well he is doing at such a young age," said Cliff Jowsey. "He is young, he only turns 17 next month, but he has always been interested in it and he is doing well."

The youngster has suffered a lot of bad luck so far on the Classic Racing Cars circuit but he is hoping the victory at Spa will stand him in good stead for the rest of the season.

This weekend he is going back to Silverstone before further competitions on these shores at Mallory Park and Donnington.

But in a few weeks time Jowsey will then be packing his bags again and heading for the Portuguese F1 track in Estoril.

And hopes are high that Jowsey, who also competes in Formula Three, can keep up his recent good form.

"Things haven't always gone his way this season," said Cliff Jowsey. "He has had engine troubles and had broken down a few times when he has been in the lead.

"But, like I say, the win in Spa has really given him confidence, all we need now is for the good luck to stay with him."