Worcester Park racer Howard Fuller reckons podium finishes are within his grasp in his second season on the Formula Palmer Audi Championship circuit this summer.

The 17-year-old, one of the youngest in the series, broke into the top ten on three occasions last season as he finished 15th - out of 30 entrants - in the final driver’s standings.

And the Brooklands College student, who tested this year’s car last month, is believes a full-season under his belt will give him the confidence to secure regular top three finishes this time around.

“It was a really surprising season for me last year. Although it was my first attempt, I was only a few tenths of a second off securing a pole position on occasions,” he said.

“I’ve got used to the circuits now and get a real buzz out of racing at the likes of Sivlerstone and Brands Hatch. They were my favourites and I should go a lot quicker this year.

“I think I can definitely get some podiums under my belt if I can qualify strongly. I’ll still be one of the youngest in the competition, but I have learnt a lot and expect to go well.

“If I can do that, a top six finish in the championship table is not out of the question.”

Formula Palmer acts as a stepping stone in to the professional ranks and is offering a £100,000 F2 scholarship and race seat to the champion, while the top six drivers across the year will get an F2 test.

And Fuller thinks it is only going to make this year’s competition harder.

“The first prize is a massive carrot. It will attract more drivers from around the world and everyone will be giving it that bit extra,” he added.

The FPA series has launched the careers of three time World Touring Car Champion Andy Priaulx and Indycar star Justin Wilson, and Fuller concedes he will be considering his options at the end of the coming campaign.

“It is a stepping stone and I think two years maximum is all you can give it before moving on, unless you think you are going to win it,” he said.

“Depending on what happens this year I may consider moving into the British Touring Car Championship if I can get a seat.

“To get involved with that would be amazing if nothing comes of the FPA.”

Formula Palmer Audi Series race calendar:

May

8-9 Brands Hatch Indy

June

26-27 Snetterton

July

24 Oulton Park

August

14-15 Donnington Park, 28 Rockingham

September

25-26 Brands Hatch GP

October

16 -17 Silverstone National