KENT'S Shane Byrne is the new British Superbike champion. He became the first British rider in recent history to take the crown with two rounds to spare after winning the opening race of round 10 at Cadwell Park.

The MonsterMob Ducati rider, from Minster, near Sheerness, shook off heavy bruising from a crash in qualifying to lead from start to finish, although he had to see off a concerted effort by John Reynolds (Suzuki).

Byrne, who had gone seven races without a win, said: “To be honest, I was more relieved to get back to winning ways as it had seemed like such a long time ago that I had won.

“My boss told me to take my time to settle, but I decided I was just going to go for. I wanted to get the job done because otherwise the pressure would have mounted in race two. The win was fantastic."

The new champion celebrated his title by finishing third in race two, despite a poor start. He said: “I played a tactical a game, but I got a bad start and a bit bashed up on the first lap.

“By the time I had got it together, I was stuck behind six or seven riders, but once I got past Gary Mason and Leon Haslam, I caught the front three quite easily. There was a bit more barging, so I lost ground and then realised I had left it too late to challenge the top boys.

“From now on I’m going to go all out from the start like I did in the first race. I’m not clever enough for tactics."

With the crown in his possession, Byrne can enjoy the remaining two rounds at Brands Hatch and Donington Park next month and look to his future.

He said: “I want to compete in the World Superbikes and that is not looking an impossibility.

“I have nothing sorted yet, but I am waiting for the phone to ring. Hopefully in the next few weeks I'll know a little more and with my future secure can relax and enjoy myself.”