A WOKINGHAM schoolboy has overcome adversity and prejudice to make his mark in the world of motor racing.

Bobby Trundley, 17, has autism and suffered from bullying and discrimination as a result of his condition, but his passion for all things cars has inspired national success both on and off the track.

Bobby, who attends The Berkshire College of Agriculture, has been honoured with the Anna Kennedy OBE Autism Hero Award for his outstanding achievements in kart racing, finishing second in two national championships, before winning the Daytona Dmax Endurance title this year.

He said: “I can’t wait to put my helmet on and get into a kart, because then I am no different to anyone else on the track. Before I started racing, people treated me like I was weird and a nobody. I had very few friends and felt lonely.

“I feel incredibly honoured to have received the Anna Kennedy Autism Hero Award. To be chosen out of some very talented people from all over the country was amazing. Anna Kennedy OBE has dedicated her life to raising awareness for autism and has inspired me to do the same.”

Bobby’s love for kart racing started when he tentatively attended a karting-themed birthday party seven years ago. It was the day that proved to be the making of him and he hopes to continue his success behind the wheel and shine a more positive light on the subject of autism in society.

“There’s so much bad publicity. We should celebrate the achievements more of people on the autistic spectrum, because we work so much harder to be accepted and to find the courage to step out of our comfort zones.

“No matter how small our achievements may seem to others, to us they’re huge because we’ve overcome so much.” Bobby added.

Bobby aspires to one day race in the British Touring Car Championships, hoping to raise more awareness for autism and inspire others with his condition to be proud of who they are.