AN OKEHAMPTON motorcyclist roared to success at one of the sport's famous racing circuits.

Leon Vledderan rode a great race to take second place at the EMRA (East Midlands Racing Association) Superstock 600cc championship at Mallory Park in Leicestershire.

It was the first EMRA club race of the season for amateur bike racers to take part in a championship outside of professional motorcycle racing; but that does not stop British Championship Superstock racers taking part and racing for practice so the racing is of a high standard.

Leon, aged 32, who works as a technician for a coffee company, was full of beans after riding his Yamaha R6 to second place in the first race and sixth in the second to take second place overall.

'It went really well against other bikes, some against riders who take part in British Superbikes and are better funded and with greater technical back-up.

'I love bike racing. It's a great sport and gives you far more of a thrill than kicking a football around or hitting a golf ball. It'ds almost gladitorial — just you and your bike against the other riders.'

Leon would love to progress in the sport but says that takes a lot of funding.

He is grateful for the backing of his three sponsors, one of whom is Peter Havard of Okehampton and his BDH plastering business.

Peter, himself use to take part in amateur motorbike racing on 600cc and 1,000cc machines, so fully understands Leon's passion to race.

'Being a huge fan of the sport I love motorcycle racing. I think is the greatest sport in the world. I really think Leon could be a championship contender.'