SHOPPERS had a taste of life in the fast lane when they got behind the wheels of a Formula One racing car simulator.

The young – and the young at heart – lapped up a chance to jump into the hot seat in Porchester Square, in Festival Place.

The car-simulator, provided by Renault UK, offered a chance to test driving skills to the max on a virtual track. Lap times were recorded, adding a competitive edge.

The £1 simulator fee was then donated to Make-a-Wish Foundation, a charity that grants wishes to children and young adults who have life-threatening illnesses.

The real thing – a gleaming Renault IMG F1 – was nearby and close enough to set Formula One buffs’ super-charged hearts racing.

Helen Newey, from Festival Place, said Formula One cars have zipped into the shopping centre before, and each time they prove popular – drawing in the crowds.

She said of the simulator: “It was a real boys’ toy with lots of dads pitting their racing skills against their kids.”