A SPECIAL reception was held at Townhall last Thursday to recognise Ballinamallard racer, Josh Elliott's success as the British Superstock 1000cc Champion.

The Fermanagh rider who secured champion status after a dramatic finish to the penultimate round of the series at Silverstone last month, was described as an "ambassador for the Council, his family and the sport", during the event in his honour.

Chairman of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Thomas O'Reilly welcomed everyone to the reception, including Josh's parents, Julian and Mandy, and sisters, Julianne and Jessica.

"While being crowned British Superstock 1000 Champion this season has obviously been the pinnacle of your career to date, your participation in the various classes had you earmarked by those in the sport as a future champion and their words have proved prophetic," he told Josh.

"In winning the championship this year, you were a model of consistency, taking five pole positions, securing five race wins, six runner-up spots and only once in the 12 races did you not finish on the podium.

"By any standards that is a phenomenal record and with a record like that, it is clearly evident that the best man won the championship this year."

The chairman said he had been impressed by Josh's past accomplishments too.

"I was particularly impressed by the fact that between the ages of nine and twelve you won five Irish Mini moto titles before graduating to the bigger bikes. "In fact, you were the youngest ever national 125 race winner in Ireland at the age of just 14.

"A spell in the German IDM Championship in 2009 while under the tutelage of World Superbike racer Jeremy McWilliams enabled you to make a smooth transition to the world of superstock racing and indeed you created yet another record by becoming the youngest ever podium finisher at the Nurburgring aged just 15."

Mr. O'Reilly said he was confident even bigger and better things were ahead for Josh.

"I’m not sure if it’s the direction you wish to go, but it would be an extremely proud moment for all of us to see a young man from Fermanagh emulate the Laverty brothers and become the next local man to race in MotoGP.

"Joshua, you are a wonderful role model for any aspiring motor cyclist. However, as with any sportsman or woman, to reach the top of your sport, requires dedication, commitment and sacrifice. As you picked up your trophy as British Superstock 1000 Championship winner for 2015, I am confident that the sacrifices you and your family have made and the single minded dedication you have shown was worthwhile.

"You are a tremendous ambassador not only for your district and for this Council, but also for your family and your sport."