When Dan Baxter spotted a broken go-kart in a wheelie bin, it ignited a passion for engineering and a desire to get children outside, having fun in the fresh air.


Dan, from Pimperne, has been spending lockdown turning broken go-karts into bespoke super karts for children to get outside and have a blast.
He spotted parts of a broken kart in a bin, and asked the householder if he could take it. He then rebuilt, refurbished and resprayed the kart before giving it to a group of children from the village, who had such fun, Dan decided to overhaul another.

Now 23 karts on, Dan is bringing joy into the locked up lives of so many children, including youngsters at Yewstock School in Sturminster Newton, Archway Pre School in Pimperne, Beaucroft School in Wimborne and Winchelsea School in Poole.
And Dan is adapting a tricycle belonging to a tot with Down Syndrome, changing the saddle to a seat and adding seat belts as she became nervous of leaning and toppling over.

“The karts are a hobby for me,” said Dan, who is exceptionally modest. “My limited skills come from messing about with cars and motorcycles from a young age. Some months ago I saw a broken go-kart frame and other bits next to someone’s wheelie bin. I asked the householder if I could take them, then welded up the frame and sourced some other parts to complete the build. After a respray I gave it to some kids in the village who had such good fun, I decided to do another.”

“I have previously suffered some mental illness problems myself so I have developed a passion trying to help kids mental health, especially In lockdown, by getting them off screens and outside having fun. I can’t imagine why any kid would not want to have a bomb around on a go-kart!”

Dan has secured a large following on his Nextdoor and Facebook page, where he posts his stories and the completed pictures of karts.
The community have been thrilled with his efforts and have been donating old, broken and unloved karts for Dan to turn into something special for children who would appreciate a dose of good old fashioned fun.

Dan added: “I now have some great contacts with people who help kids in need, so they can always find the right recipients for them.”

People can contact Dan at danbaxter@tiscali.co.uk or facebook.com/dan.baxter.963.

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