TWO Leyland bikers will set sail to the Isle of Man next week before changing gear for a lap of honour at the famous TT races.

Brian Heap, 67, of Maplewood Close, and Alan Capstick, 62, of Lydiate Lane, will be polishing their classic bikes before setting off on Friday, May 30, for the Manx island.

Both Brian and Alan are no strangers to the 38-mile course, which circles the island, having spent many years up against the clock in search of their best time.

Former Royal Marine Brian, who also drove buses for local firm Fishwick's before retiring, said: "I love bikes and began racing at tracks like Alston Park in Cheshire.

"You have to get a good track record before going on to the TT but the atmosphere in the Isle of Man during the races is fantastic. The police are really cooperative and for anyone who likes bikes it is such a great experience."

Although their racing days are over Brian and Alan still get on their bikes for sprints and hill climbs. And they are both eager to wave to the crowds on the lap of honour prior to the start of the big race on Saturday, May 31.

"We took part many times and there is the interest in our old bikes," said Brian, who drives a 1968 BMW Ren Sport replica with a 492cc engine.

Alan, who will rev up on a 1978 Kawasaki Matisse with a 1160c engine, gave up racing when he married his third wife Dorothy in 1978.

He said: "She came out to the TT and couldn't bear to watch so I sold my bikes and got my son into cart racing instead. I think my adrenaline will be pumping and I'll have to watch I don't go too fast," said Alan.