Motorbike racer Phil Banks is desperately trying to find support for his 2003 campaign.

He started his racing career last year, and finished fifth at Snetterton in his first outing after starting 38th on the grid, but his first season was no easy ride. Mechanical problems caused him to crash at a later meeting and while testing at Oulton Park he was knocked off by a slower rider, costing him 13 weeks waiting for a single replacement part.

"That shunt at Oulton ruined the season but it just means I've got to give it 210 per cent this year," he said.

Successful testing sessions towards the end of last season have filled him with optimism and Phil hopes to show what he can do aboard his Honda CBR600. "At the end of last season I went to Mallory Park and managed to dip into the 51-second bracket, that would've put me on the grid at a British Supersport race back in 99 when my bike was there."

"I was using old tyres and it was only my fifth time on a track, I think it shows I've got the potential to be up there, all I need is some help -- unfortunately money seems to talk at the end of the day"

Having worked for British Superstock rider Lee Morton as a technician, Phil is under no Illusions how hard it is to make it to the top, but is confident that with the right backing he can take his skills all the way.

"Racing is not easy, the psychological barriers are immense, but I've shown that I can overcome them. I'm sure that given the right backing I can get to British level and compete."

Phil would like to thank Paul and Lee Morton for all their help last season with bike preparation and advice. "There's absolutely no way I could have done it without them".

If you're interested in helping Phil Banks or would like further information please contact him by email at: philbanks@hotmail.com.

n Picture shows Phil on his way to fifth in his first outing at Snetterton.