Stock car star Frankie Wainman Junior from Silsden was narrowly beaten to the European Championship title at Northampton International Raceway -- by a car he had built himself.

Wainman had only just built the winning car for Rob Speak from Tyldesley, who turned on the style to take his first major Formula One title.

Frankie Junior was philosophical in defeat, and shaking Speak's hand after they unstrapped from the safety harness, he said: "Well, I can certainly build them can't I? - Shame I can't always catch them too."

Speak, in only his first full season in the senior class, started near the back of the 38 car grid in the new car, just in front of Wainman.

After an early incident, which caused a stoppage and took nine of the 38 starters out with damage or punctures, Wainman followed Speak steadily through the pack.

When Speak took the lead just before the half way flag in the 25 lap race, Wainman was in fourth place.

He then closed onto Speak's rear bumper during the final laps, but could not get close enough to force his way past.

Paul Harrison, from Rochdale, was third for the second year in succession.

Frankie took over the crown of top stock car driver from his father, Frankie Snr, who was World Champion in 1979 and National points champion from 1984-86.

Together they have dominated the sport in the UK, Europe and around the world for decades. In 1997 Frankie Junior won his first National Points title and also became New Zealand champion.

n Frankie (right) is presented with the European runners-up medal.