The need for speed is a feeling Rob Compton knows only too well. It consumes much of his spare time – and money – in his quest for enjoyment. Mr Compton, who grew up on his father s 1,000-acre Clay Hill Farm at Sutton, with his four brothers, risks life a

The need for speed is a feeling Rob Compton knows only too well.

It consumes much of his spare time - and money - in his quest for enjoyment.

Mr Compton, who grew up on his father's 1,000-acre Clay Hill Farm at Sutton, with his four brothers, risks life and limb and the wrath of his bank manager driving his 170mph Pontiac car in the frightening sport of stock car racing.

This summer Mr Compton, 41, will be competing in the Stock Car Speed Association races at the Rockingham Speedway Circuit in Corby, Northamptonshire.

On any Sunday afternoon, Mr Compton, who lives with his family in King Street, Potton, will risk life and limb duelling for honours at 140mph in front of 3,000 spectators.

Mr Compton, who runs his own business installing radio equipment in emergency vehicles, is now seeking sponsorship to help relieve the financial burden of his racing addiction.

"It is expensive. For a start the car cost £30,000 then you have all the other costs during a season when you are racing," said Mr Compton.

"Our racing is the same as in the US with big cars, high speed and a lot of thrills and spills.

"But it is also very expensive as a hobby which is why I am seeking sponsorship. For instance I can spend up to £500 on a pair of tyres every few weeks then I can have the costs of repairing any damage to the car after races."

Mr Compton began his racing career in an old Vauxhall Nova in 1990 and was immediately bitten by the speed bug.

A series of cars followed culminating with his current classic Pontiac which he hopes will bring him honours this summer.

"It is a big gamble and a big investment for me," said Mr Compton, who went to school in Sandy and Potton.

"Racing is an expensive hobby and digs into my savings so to keep on track for any honours means I must find sponsorship.

"Thankfully I have wonderful support from my family but what I really need is sponsors to help me to my dream of winning a major stock car championship. The SCSA is American style stock car racing. Over there it is behind baseball as the biggest spectator sport and it is very popular here."

If you would like to back Mr Compton and his 170mph car you can contact him on 01767 260926 or 07885 735635.