Round three of the 2017 Eurocup Formula Renault 2.0 in Pau saw Lake District-born Frank Bird continue his good work with two top 20 results.

The 17-year-old Be Wiser, Hager, WIX Filters and Frank Bird Poultry-backed driver, originally from Penrith, was making his debut on a street track.

And despite changeable weather conditions, the Cumbrian acquitted himself well during practice in the Fortec Motorsports car before qualifying in 24th place out of the 30 drivers.

With improving conditions, Bird’s lap times reduced and, in the opening race, he was embroiled in a battle with former British F4 Championship front-runners Zane Goddard and Luis Leeds.

The trio were separated by just 1.5 seconds at the end of the race as the teenager crossed the line in 20th place.

Race two saw Bird start one row further back but another titanic battle between the British driver and the two Australians saw him improve even further and this time he crossed the line to claim 17th position at the chequered flag.

“I’m really happy with how the weekend went overall, considering it was my first time racing on a street circuit but there is so much to learn,” Bird said.

“I was a little disappointed with how both qualifying sessions ended up but it’s a lot different to a normal race track, so it was a case of getting used to the environment.

“The races were OK and I enjoyed a couple of battles on track, I showed some good pace and did my best to stay out of trouble in the hot conditions.”

Next up for Bird and the Fortec team is a pair of support races to the famous Monaco Formula 1 Grand Prix which takes place next weekend for round four of the series.

Bird added: “I’m excited to be racing at Monaco next weekend.

“It’s one of the most famous tracks in the world and to be supporting the Formula 1 GP is fantastic. I can’t wait to get started.”