Double engine failure during preparation for the opening round of the Euro Formula Open Winter Series at Paul Ricard in France hindered Sean Walkinshaw on his debut in the top class.

It left the Chipping Norton driver 11th at the Le Castellet circuit, near Marseille.

Making his competitive debut with Campos Racing, an engine blow-up during the first test session set the scene for the 20-year-old’s exasperating weekend.

He re-emerged halfway through the third run and recorded the second fastest time in the final session.

Another engine failure undid the good work, and saw him qualify 13th.

He ended the race 11th, 1.5 seconds outside the top ten.

Walkinshaw said: “It has been a frustrating start, but there are some positives to take away.”