POWERBIKE ace Andy Burbidge admitted he nearly quit racing altogether after "things weren't going well" but held on and claimed his first win of the season on Saturday, writes Matt Smith.

The Winyates Green ace said after a friend died in a freak warm up lap accident at Cadwell Park in July and following crashes of his own as well as losing money his thoughts led him to quitting the sport altogether.

But after Saturday, Burbidge's thoughts turned to anything but quitting.

Burbidge came in fourth in the first New Era race at Silverstone after some steering problems but overcame these to take top spot in the second.

"In the first race my steering dampener was wrecked after a bolt sheared off in the second lap so I took it steady and came in fourth," said Burbidge.

"But the second race was a massive confidence boost for me . I just wish I could have pulled it off in the MRO this season.

"The New Era competition isn't as strong but the pleasing thing is my lap times were good," he added.

And the rider will be looking to turn his winning ways to the MRO Championship which concludes at Brands Hatch on October 25 and 26.

Burbidge added: "I would just like to thank VVM John Deely, Airstyles Design and Symtek Racing and my dad Terry."