A FAMILY of speed demons are spearheading a bid to get more young people into buggy racing.

Seasoned rally driver turned specialist car dealer Peter Slights, of Pigeon Cote Garage, Monks Cross, has already bred some future stars of the circuit in daughter Emma, aged 13, and Ashley, nine, and is now encouraging other young people with a "need for speed" to join in.

His call comes with the launch of a new breed of buggy, designed for racers aged between four and 15. Peter says the Havel Beta Cabrio, here driven by Ashley, and the Grand Beta RS, with Emma at the wheel, are "totally safe and reliable", and is hoping to find some space in the York area so that local youngsters can learn the ropes.

"When I found out about these buggies, I bought one for Emma and Ashley to share as a Christmas present," he said.

"They certainly did me proud, because they entered a competition at the Silverstone Rally Sprint, and won, last year.

"Now they've got one each, because I imported seven buggies for them and some of my clients."

The buggies are approved and crash tested, and feature hydraulic disc brakes, shock absorbers, bucket seats and seatbelts. All that's needed, says Peter, is a helmet, some overalls and a few gutsy driving skills.

Buggies retail for between £1,995 and £2,450, depending on the model.

The youngsters are now looking to follow in the footsteps of their dad, who finished second in the Metro Superchallenge in Birmingham in 1987, and fifth in the 1986 National Breakdown Rally. He raced in a Metro 6R4, similar to the one pictured here, which he has sold to Martyn Harrison, of Harrison Construction in Malton.

Peter is hoping to find a racing area for the buggies, possibly at Rufforth.

"For youngsters, these things are a real alternative to quad bikes, which are perceived as dangerous, and the fact that they are completely safe is all the more reassuring," he added.

If you would like to know more about the world of buggies and rallying, ring Peter on 01904 611494.

Updated: 14:22 Wednesday, January 23, 2002