Young Haddington speedster Paul McClung capped off a memorable second year of racing by clinching second place in the North East Motorcycle Club Championship at East Fortune at the weekend - the fourth championship he has finished runner-up in this year.

The 14-year-old, who races in the Formula 125 category for riders aged 12-18, may not be the most experienced rider but his talent is shining through and he now adds that second place to the ones he has already achieved in the Melville Motorcycle Club Championship, the Nevis Youth Awards and the Scottish Championships.

Racing both at East Fortune and at well-known Fife circuit Knockhill, McClung has enjoyed some notable successes.

At a meeting at East Fortune last month he registered his maiden win of his racing career to go with two seconds and a third-place finish.

At the weekend’s meeting he smashed that performance, riding with the Classics category after the only other Formula 125 rider present was forced to retire and racking up four first-place trophies while consistently lapping in times of 1m12s.

Mum Mary said: “He got on really well and it was a great end to a successful season.” McClung has built well on a successful debut season in 2009, when he finished third in three championships and was named Best Newcomer and Best Improved Novice by the Melville Motorcycle Club.

McClung’s racing career was almost over before it started when he went to sit his novice licence in early 2009, only to find his bike had frozen in the van overnight. However, after heading home for repairs, he returned to pass with ease.

In S3 at Knox Academy, McClung also plays rugby for Haddington RFC under-15s and has been picked for trials with the East Lothian Falcons.

McClung is currently looking for sponsorship for next season and anyone interested should contact him on 01620 824408.