MOTORBIKER James Crumpton has switched his attention to short-circuit racing - and admits maybe he should have done so sooner.

The 31-year-old Stourport race ace is fourth in the MRO Championship after winning his latest meet at Castle Combe, Wiltshire.

Crumpton, racing 14 laps of a two-and-a-half mile circuit, qualified fourth but had a bad start to the race proper.

He dropped down to 12th but recovered to hit the front by the third lap and eventually established a three-second lead despite his six-year-old bike being up against newer models.

Crumpton has had to switch to short circuits after the foot and mouth crisis caused the cancellation of the Isle of Man TT where he was one of the big names.

He explained: "I don't normally do the short circuits but I'm glad I did now. I've done quite well even though I haven't done them for four years.

"It's just all come together and I wish I had done it sooner really. I'm 30 points away from the leader so with 25 points for a win, I'm not far off.

"The other racers are on brand new bikes as well, while mine is six-years-old."

Crumpton got into the sport through his dad Bill who used to race sidecars and has established himself among the world's best road racers.

He next competes in the MRO Championship this weekend, when he celebrates his 32nd birthday, at Thruxton.

Sponsorship is top of the agenda for Crumpton, especially as he hopes to make an impression on the European circuit next year.

Anyone interested can call him on 01299 825514.