GREAT Harwood motorbike ace Lance Cronshaw has not given up hope of claiming victory in the Ace of Aintree Formula 600 Championship with two rounds remaining.

Cronshaw finished fourth in the championship last season after two blown engines saw him lose out on important points.

The 25-year-old, who rides a Yamaha Supersport R6 600, had further issues in the latest round of this year’s series but still sits third in the standings.

Cronshaw has second place very much in his sights but is also still hoping to overhaul the deficit to claim top spot in the final two rounds.

The next round takes place at Aintree in Liverpool on August 11, before the series finishes on September 15.

“I was second in the championship but I had a problem with my engine so I’m down to third,” Cronshaw said.

“I did manage to finish the race but I had a problem with the fuel injectors.

“I’m quite happy with how the season has gone. It was disappointing to have the problem but we’ve overcome that now.

“I’m happy to be challenging for second place and I’m only four points behind so I think it’s do-able.

“And I’m only about 10 points behind first place so that is still possible if someone had some bad luck.

“All it takes is for someone to slide off in wet conditions. You wouldn’t wish it on anyone but it can happen.

“It would be silly to say I’m going to finish in this place or that place, but I’ll try my best.”

Cronshaw has received assistance from a number of friends and sponsors as he continues his motorcycling career.

He said: “I’m very grateful for what they’ve done for me.

“I’d just like to say a big thanks to Tony at CMS, Christine at Cranberry Coachways, Tony Shaw at T Shaw Welding, MW Graphics, Immy’s Barbers, Tony Holmes who does my engine tuning, Bob Wright Racing, Dave Holden and my mum and dad.

“I wouldn’t be here without those people.”