A DREAM came true for motorcycle racer Dave Edwards.
The Leigh-based rider stood on the podium at the world's most famous road racing circuit after finishing second in the Classic 250cc class at the Manx Grand Prix in the Isle of Man.
And cheering him on was his Number One fan his 81 year-old father, Len, from Lowton, himself a former racer who got Dave interested in racing back in 1973 aboard his home-built BSA based JES (Jones Edwards Special).
"I was over the moon as it's only the third time I have competed on the TT circuit and only the second time on the Yamaha," said Dave.
"After finishing fourth last year I couldn't have wished for a better result." The BT engineer and former Leigh Harriers 1500 metres runner had a worrying start to the Manx GP fortnight with an electrical fault during his first full practice session then his bike suffered a broken crankshaft necessitating an engine swap.
With the little twin cylinder two-stroke flying he posted second fastest in his class during practice.
Poor weather meant race day was postponed for 24 hours but when it finally got underway fancied runners Ewan Hamilton and Tom Jackson dropped out and Dave took second place having been fastest through the Sulby speed trap at 123.8 mph.
"My thanks are due to TLT Garage Services Moss Industrial Estate Leigh
and SMD Tyres (Leigh) who have supported me for the last couple of seasons. Without their help it would be a real struggle to compete competitively. Last but not least Len, my dad. He has supported me throughout my racing career, his passion for the sport and motorcycling in general is second to none."
Dave's season has gone well with a 3rd place in the Pre-TT 250cc Classic race on the Billown circuit in the Isle of Man
Currently he leads the 'Ace of Aintree' 250cc Classic championship by 10 points going into this Saturday's final round. A top three finish will see him clinch the championship for a third successive season.
Another local rider Joel Williams from Astley was sixth single cylinder machine home in the Classic 350cc race at the Manx GP riding Dave Hardman's 1956 BSA Gold Star with backing from Tony Salt of TST Tyres, Culcheth.
Joel also lapped the TT course at over 101mph aboard a Suzuki SV650 in a damp SuperTwins race.