THE country’s top grasstrack riders will be heading to Dorset later this month when Wimborne Motor Cycle Club hosts the ACU British Masters Championship at their Merley Hall Farm circuit in Corfe Mullen.

The meeting, which is due to take place on Sunday, September 27, is the UK’s premier grasstrack event and features an all-star line-up in both the 500cc solo and 1000cc sidecar classes.

It also provides local teenage racer James Shanes with a rare opportunity to compete on home soil and it is an event that the Puddletown youngster is looking forward to.

Having already won an FIM gold medal with Team GB’s Longtrack squad, an individual FIM (Europe) silver medal and a Sand Racing British Championship in 2015 he will be hoping for a good performance at the masters to round off an amazing year.

However, it will not be an easy ride with defending champion Andrew Appleton keen to keep hold of the title.

Also in the 24 strong solo line-up are longtrack stars Richard Hall and Glen Phillips, Grand Prix ace Chris Harris (subject to speedway commitments) plus a whole host of British grasstrackers including the exciting Tim Nobes.

However, it is the sidecars that may prove the most thrilling – former champions Mark Cossar/ Carl Blyth will be eager to take back the crown from 2014 winners Rod Winterburn/Liam Brown, while Rod’s sons, Gareth and Billy will be looking to beat them all to claim their first masters’ title.

Practice is set for 11am, with the first race at 1pm.

Further information is available online (via the club’s website – wimbornemcc.co.uk – and facebook page – Wimborne Motor Cycle Club), or by telephoning 01202 778136.