MATTHEW Robinson started his first British Grand Prix from pole position at Donington Park last weekend.

However a clutch failure on the opening lap prevented the Rudheath racer, a rookie in the 125cc class, from making the most of a remarkable achievement during his maiden season in the British Superkart Association’s National Championship.

The 21-year-old had stormed from the back of the grid in the previous race, rising from 44th at the start to ninth by the time the chequered flag fell.

With lap times determining the start order for the Grand Prix – Sunday’s showpiece – his best circuit – a 1.37.617 – was fast enough to head the field on the grid.

“Leading the pack onto the track for the biggest race of the season is something I’ll never forget,” said Robinson.

“But when the lights went out, something didn't feel quite right straightaway.

“The clutch had seized, and a hit from behind due to having no power to accelerate lifted the rear wheels off the floor.

“In the blink of an eye, that was it; race over.”

Robinson, a student at Lancaster University, had set the fourth fastest time during qualifying for Saturday’s opener.

His luck was out again though; a water pump failure ended early his involvement when the engine on his machine started to overheat.

The season resumes at the same circuit next month.