A YORK grandfather has sped his way to glory.

Ted Fenwick, 83, was up against competitors half his age when he travelled to the Isle of Man to take part in the island’s TT fortnight.

Aboard his trusty Ducati 250cc, the granddad from Heworth has been a regular fixture at the event for three decades and has broken bones in his pursuit of victory – which he achieved when he won in the 250cc Single Cylinder Class.

Retired engineer Mr Fenwick first rode 29 years ago and has enjoyed three triumphs on the island’s 4.25-mile Billown circuit, as well as a couple of runner-up positions.

He said; “I enjoy it and I will keep on doing it “There are some good people there and I also think it represents a challenge. I just get a lot of satisfaction from being there.

“I’ve been riding for quite a while and I think I’m now regarded as somebody to beat! But my ambition is just always to finish.”

Mr Fenwick finished 38 seconds ahead of his nearest competition, Ian Ward.

Third-placed rider Terry Kermode said: “I can’t believe it. He is a credit to us all and his riding style is fabulous.”

The racer caught the motorbike bug 59 years ago, since when he has fractured his pelvis and broken his neck. He says he plans to return to the Isle of Man for the TT Races next year.

However, he admitted: “It will keep getting harder and harder, but there is also a challenge and I hope I will go back there.”