NEWTON racer Peter Alton is hoping to challenge for victory at next year's TT meeting on the Isle of Man after finishing seventh in this year's sidecar B race.

The 43-year-old, who owns the race company OTC, recently competed in his sixth TT race and, alongside Crewe rider Roger Stockton, improved on last year's finish of ninth place on the treacherous 37.7-mile circuit.

He said: "We're climbing up the field year on year, having started at the back initially.

"We were pleased with how we did this year because our engine effectively exploded after two practice laps.

"We had to use last year's race engine so we thought we'd be a bit further back.

"Some of the people there are holiday racers but we've never been that. Our aim is to be the number one and we take it seriously.

"We aim to give it a good crack in 2007. Any of the top 20 riders can win because things are very changeable.

"But it is the 100th anniversary of the TT races next year so that will make the race special."

Alton, who won the British Sidecar Championship in 1994, is Stockton's passenger during races but that involves a lot more than sitting back and enjoying the ride.

"You need an old head," said Alton.

"The rider makes the decisions but he is totally dependent on the passenger. He can turn the bike right but you can make it go left.

"The sidecars slide round corners so you have to transfer your weight correctly."

The famous Isle of Man circuit has arguably become infamous over the years because of the number of racers that have died there.

Alton knows the risks involved when he competes there but reckons that is part of the attraction for him.

He said: "It is known worldwide for being the most dangerous race in the world but that draws me to it because I want to be the best. I'm an adrenalin junkie.

"I had a couple of friends who died last year and a couple died this year as well.

"There were a few close moments for us this year, particularly when we came to a backmarker.

"Once you go off the racing line you are into uncharted territory because you could hit an undulation in the road and go off.

"But I don't think you can make it any safer and I'm prepared to take the risk that not many people will take."

Chris Flanagan