GREG Lambert's bid to become the fastest sidecar racer in the world has moved up a gear thanks to sponsorship from North Yorkshire firm Dalepak Foods.

Greg, an engineering buyer at the company, in Leeming Bar, holds a number of major titles including King of the Road and North of England Champion.

He was widely tipped to win this year's sidecar races at the Isle of Man TT, before its cancellation due to the foot-and-mouth crisis.

He is the fourth fastest person ever on the 113-mile TT circuit with an average of 108mph, but reaching speeds in excess of 160mph.

Greg runs two racing bikes and is looking towards the European Championship, which starts in Wales at the end of this month, and which will take him all over Europe.

Although he still has next year's TT races in his sights, his ambition is to join the elite of the sport and gain grand prix status.

He said: "It's a very expensive sport and the support I've received from Dalepak over the years has made a tremendous difference."

Jon Eagle, managing director of Dalepak Foods, said: "Greg is totally committed to his sport and does an excellent job for us here at Dalepak. We're delighted to be able to contribute towards him achieving his personal ambition."