RACER Chris Cattermole, who broke his back in a horrific 100mph kart smash, is determined to drive back to the top.

Former British champion Chris, 33, cheated death when he was thrown from his 400lb machine which then landed on top of him at Oulton Park, Cheshire.

He is now back home in Bolland Prospect, Clitheroe, recovering from his injuries which also include fractured shoulder blades, a punctured lung and broken ribs.

Today Chris, who spent a week in Leighton Hospital, Crewe, said he hoped his injuries would heal enough for him to drive a kart within a couple of months. His back is in plaster and he is still waiting to be told about his long-term recovery prospects.

Chris said: "I remember two karts colliding in front of me on the first bend of the race.

"I was about six feet behind them and had nowhere to go.

"I was going about 100mph and if I had hit them head-on I would probably have killed the drivers.

"I managed to turn sideways but I was thrown from the kart which, apparently, spun in the air and landed on top of me. I don't remember too much after that.

In 1993, Chris reached the pinnacle of his career by winning the British championship in the 210 cc class. He had recently had a disappointing season in the 250cc class.

He said: "I can walk a little, but it is very painful.

"The kart is not too badly damaged...but I am.

"I don't know if this will put me off racing until I get back behind the wheel. But I want to be the British champion again."

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