TEENAGE Horwich motorcycle racer Malachi Mitchell-Thomas secured an impressive fifth place in round one of the Superstock 600 class over the Easter weekend.

The 19 year old had set-up issues with his bike during the free practice and qualifying sessions at Donington Park but managed to get on the second row for Monday's race.

Mitchell-Thomas, who rides for the Silicone Engineering Racing Race Team, is only in his second year at the Superstock 600 level which is a support class the prestigious British Superbike series.

But he again showed his talent to finish the race in fifth and secure 11 championship points.

The race was over 14 laps at the famous Donington circuit and Mitchell-Thomas initially dropped back from his starting position.

But he fought back through a highly-competitive field to regain his fifth spot by the chequered flag.

It left him in positive mood ahead of round two which takes place over the weekend of April 17-19 at Brands Hatch.

He said: "It was a great start to the season and I am happy with a fifth place and some good Championship points.

"We worked through our issues with the team and should be much better for Brands Hatch."