Taunton motorcycle racer Jimmy Hodges is celebrating a second place in the national road race championship after competing in the Aberdare Park road race held on closed public roads in Wales.

The previous day Hodges, (22), travelled to Wigan to compete in the British Supermoto championship and finished 12th overall in the Elite Pro's class as a privateer.

Hodges, who rides a Honda CRF450 donated by Gvbikes of Taunton, is taking part in the British Supermoto championship in his first season as well as a selected few road race rounds if funds allow.

He said: “2012 has been a tough year so far. I've really had to step it up and push my skills as I'm competing against the Elites in Supermoto and they're some of the best riders in the world.

“If it wasn't for the support I've received from my sponsors - GVBIKES, Silkolene oils, AMH Racing - and all the people that have helped me to take part this year, it really would not have been possible to get as far as I have.

“This has really been a learning year for me and I've really enjoyed myself. My results have improved throughout the year, I’ve even surprised myself with a couple of top ten results and a fifth overall at Silverstone in July.

“I've competed at the Aberdare Park road race once before back when I was 18 and really wanted to return to see if I could improve on my previous result of fourth overall so am very happy to come away with second overall on the Sunday considering I missed a day at the track due to the British round in Wigan.

“I even led the race for several laps till dropping back and having to settle for second.”

In 2013 Hodges hopes that he can receive enough support to be a regular top contender in the British championship and to maybe go onto full-time road racing in the near future.

If you feel you can help Hodges in his quest to rise up through the ranks any help would be greatly appreciated.

He can be contacted by email on jimmyh558@hotmail.co.uk.