Car crazy James Duncan, 12, wins car body makeover

May 6 2010 by Gemma Jaleel, Ormskirk Advertiser

A BURSCOUGH schoolboy who is crazy about cars has had a taste of life in the fast lane.

Car fanatic James Duncan, 12, went along to the first round of the JDM Allstars Drift Championships in Manchester after winning the Advertiser’s Pimp Your Ride competition back in December.

James and his dad Malcolm of Crabtree Lane won £250 worth of body styling courtesy of auto-body specialist Jon Unwin of Base Design in Mawdesley.

The pair have been working together to restore a Mini that Malcolm bought for James 18 months ago.

Malcolm, 56, told the Advertiser: “James is absolutely mad about cars. He has a go-kart that he rides round in the field behind our house. He had a whale of a time at the drift event

“I bought him the Mini to do up ready for when he passes his driving test. I know it’s five years away but he just loves cars.”

So when Jon also invited James to help out on his trade stand at the drift event at the Trafford Centre – James leapt at the chance.

James, a St Bede’s pupil, said: “I had an amazing time watching the drifting show.

“I saw monster trucks and everything. I love cars and I especially like to draw them. I’d like to design cars when I’m older.

“I’ve always wanted a Mini – it’s red and it would be great to have some racing stripes down it.

“I would just like to say thanks to Jon for inviting me. I had a great time and it’s something I’ll never forget.”