A SIDECAR duo have collected a major prize - just 15 months after teaming up.

But it could have been all so different after a 140 mph crash that could have left them both seriously injured.

Newton engineer Pete Alton, aged 36, linked up with Crewe rider Roger Stockton to form OTC Racing in July 1998.

And this month they clinched the 1999 Darley Moor Motorcyle Racing Championship. They started the day in third place, but damaged the bike in the first contest.

It meant a race against time to get it ready for the next event. But they came up with the goods and in a dramatic finale took the chequered flag and the championship.

It was a far cry from the day in April when disaster struck. As they approached the Paddock Corner on lap four the front brakes of their 600cc Honda failed due to overheating. The sidecar chair wheel continued to brake, causing it to crash over at about 140mph.

They two men were rushed to hospital, but were soon released with cuts and bruises.

The sidecar sustained extensive damage and both men worked hard to repair and improve it.

The team now intend to defend their Darley Moor title next year and compete in more National meetings, with the aim to compete in the Isle of Man TT. They would like to thank sponsors K&S Heating, St Helens; St Helens Auto Electrical Appliances; Clock Face Hotel; Lunts Heath Tyre and Exhausts; Ferodo Ltd; Lloyds Lifetsyle Akito; Martek Cooper Buckley.

Anyone wishing to offer further backing can contact Pete Alton on 01925 226362.

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