DAVE Pither from Stretton-on-Fosse has confirmed his participation in next month's 2001 Silverstone Historic Festival.

He will compete as part of a 40-strong grid of the most exciting Formula 750 and Unlimited 4-stroke classic racing motorcycles in the world, for the Mike Hailwood Memorial Trophy and Silverstone Trophy respectively.

Pither, riding his awesome 749cc Triumph Trident, will pit himself against some of the biggest names in the sport, such as Swedish Champion and Daytona winner Hasse Gustafson riding his 905cc Ducati and British Classic Race Champion 'Gentleman' Phil Davenport on his 1972 750cc three-cylinder Triumph.

"When I heard that classic motorcycle racing had been included at Silverstone for the first time, I leapt at the chance to be a part of it," Pither enthused.

"Racing for the Mike Hailwood Trophy against such high calibre riders and their bikes will be a tremendous challenge - one which I definitely don't want to miss."

Competitors will kick-start the track action by completing eight laps of the 2.249-mile International Circuit on each of the festival days.

Off track, a display area will allow enthusiasts a closer look at the runners and riders.

Working as organiser of the entry list in conjunction with Festival organisers Octagon Motorsports Ltd and the BRDC, Allan Robinson MBE, says: "It's absolutely fantastic that Silverstone has invited the world of classic motorcycle racing to join in the spectacle at this year's Silverstone Historic Festival.

"Judging by the interest already being expressed, this looks set to be one of the most exciting and exhilarating classic racing experiences of recent years."

For ticket information and advance bookings for the event on August 25-27, call Silverstone on 01327 850204.

Evesham rider, Ted Roebuck, meanwhile claimed first and second places on his CT 125 Honda in the latest round of the EMRA Club Championship at Mallory Park last Sunday.

Shipston rider Mark Steed was in the running for third in the opener when the second-placed rider came off close to the finish and Steed couldn't avoid a collision and ended up on the track.

He only sustained bruises but was unable to compete in the second race.

The next rounds are on July 29.