SKIPTON motorcyclist David Castle will ride into next month's TT races with high hopes.

For, the 37-year-old motorcycle engineer is currently lying about fifth in the British Production Championships following a successful day at Cadwell Park on Monday.

He took part in two races, each with a field of 35 riders, and finished fourth in the first and ninth in the second.

Before the Bank Holiday meeting, he was seventh in the championship, but he hopes his results will have pushed him up to fifth position.

"I am really enjoying this season," said David, who has his own motorcycle business in Devonshire Place. "It is nice to be out there doing well."

He has been racing since 1984, but this is his best season to date, taking top honours at at Oliver's Mount, Scarborough, last month.

He attributes his success to a variety of factors. "It is a combination of everything," he explained. "I am doing a lot more racing this year, and I have a new bike - a Yamaha YZF1000 R1. It is a very fast machine, and I expect to get up to about 180mph at the TT. "

However, David has no qualms about the dangers of racing. "If you worried about it, you wouldn't do it," he said.

He sets off for the Isle of Man tomorrow (Saturday), and will take part in three TT races - the junior, the senior, and the production events.

"I think my chances are very good in the production race, and if I finish in the top 10, I will be over the moon," said David.

His next goal after that is to maintain or improve his championship position in the remaining five races. And to help him realise his ambition, he is looking for a sponsor to cover the costs of his tyres.

He is currently sponsored by Cononley-based Lewthwaite Engineering, Hobsport Racing of Eastburn, and Silkolene, of Derbyshire. Anyone who can help should contact David on 01756 793396.

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