Former Formula One star Alex Zanardi is back behind the wheel just three months after a horrific high-speed crash nearly claimed his life.

Zanardi had both his legs amputated after the accident in a Champ car race in Germany.

But the Italian, who took his first steps walking on artificial limbs in October, has remained upbeat about his future.

He has not given up hope of a return to top-class motorsport.

And Zanardi told BBC Five Live how he drives himself on the 600-mile round trip between his Monaco home and a rehabilitation centre in Bologna.

The former Cart champion revealed he ultimately hopes to dispose of his crutches and get around unaided.

"I have to walk with just the muscles I've got left," he said.

"There is a particular technique to utilise the mechanical knees I have fitted.

"Eventually I will be able to get rid of the crutches and probably walk with no outside help and almost look to the outside like a normal person"

Zanardi said driving to his rehabilitation sessions was proving a great boost to his recovery.