The Saltford man whose surname is currently on the lips of the sporting world has spoken of his pride after Jenson Button clinched the Formula 1 title on Sunday, writes Neil Beck.

Racing instructor Erling Jensen, who Button was named after, saw the Frome Flyer deliver the drive of his life in Brazil to become Britain's 10th F1 world champion.

The Dane is an old friend and rallycross rival of Button's dad, John, who used to live in Upper Vobster.

"It's every driver's dream but the reality of life is that very few get to even have a go at it let alone win the world championship," Erling said.

"He was always a talented driver and if you look at what has happened in his career all credit to him for sticking at it.

"It was a fantastic drive in Brazil, regardless of whether he won the title or not at the end of it," he added.

"Overnight he would have been distraught after qualifying but he came out all guns blazing and some of his overtaking moves were outstanding."

Erling's son Steven, 25, is a talented Formula Ford driver himself and was bitten by the motor racing bug when he sat in a young Button's kart as a five-year-old.

"For me, he (Button) is a natural, home-grown success rather than some of the more 'X-factor', manufactured drivers," said Erling.

"He came through the normal route of karting and Formula Fords through family hard graft.

"It was a long road up the hill but he's made it and I am delighted for him."