Teenage motorcyclist Lynden on the road to success

Ollerton teenager Lynden Leatherland in action during the British Junior Motorsport Series.

Back in the 1980s and 90s, Gary Leatherland, now 58, competed at a national level in road racing. Now his 19-year-old son Lynden is making a name for himself in the newly-created British Junior Motorsport Series, which showcases the best young talent in the country.

“Lynden started in motocross at the age of ten,” said Gary. “For his 18th birthday, we bought him a session with the Ron Haslam Race School at Donington Park and, within half an hour, he said: I want to go road racing!”

Lynden hit the track last year before dad and mum Karen, 49, bought him a new Kawasaki Ninja 400 bike for the Junior Supersport. It’s a prestigious series, running alongside the British Superbike Championship at top tracks, and races are often televised.

Lynden competes under the banner of his dad’s firm, G L Fabrications, of Mansfield, and with vital help from Sutton-based sponsor, J & R Bodyworks.

Gary added: “It’s proper racing, much faster and more professional than motocross. Every time Lynden gets on a bike, he gains more experience and more confidence. He is very happy with the progress he is making.”