After a successful season that included a debut TT podium, three wins at the Ulster Grand Prix and a further victory at the North West 200, Maguiresbridge racer Lee Johnston and team East Coast Racing will continue their partnership into 2016. East Coast Construction began its association with Johnston back in 2011, but a fully focused three-year plan was put in place in 2014, and team owner Phil Reed is delighted that his East Coast Racing team can continue with the 26-year-old next term.

“Lee has become part of the family here at East Coast Racing and we are really pleased that we can now build on the success we achieved this season.

“We go racing primarily for the enjoyment of it all, but success breeds success, and with wins at the North West 200 and Ulster Grand Prix this year – our goal is to hopefully crack the code to a TT top step next June.” With a personal best lap of 130.851mph at this year’s TT, en-route to his debut podium in the Superstock race, the diminutive Fermanagh man will have plenty of goals for 2016 as he explained.

“Phil will not mind me saying that I had a few very flattering offers for next season. When I sat down and looked at it all, I had to ask myself would anyone be able to offer more than we have here at East Coast Racing.

“We have a great bunch of guys with a lot of experience and with the support of BMW Motorrad and the development we have done with the 675 Triumph, I know we can do a top job next year.

“I’m not one for making rash predictions, as that just sets you up for a fall, but I do believe we can build on this year’s results and hopefully add some more silverware to the collection,” commented Lee.