DOUGIE Lampkin, who rides for Burnley-based Sandeford Motorcycles, opened the defence of his Indoor World title by snatching a dramatic win at the first round of the new series held at Sheffield Arena late last night in front of 8,000 screaming home fans.

For the second year in succession Lampkin was pushed all the way by Marc Freixa from Spain, with the reigning champion only taking control of the event in the closing stages to remain unbeaten at his home round and to increase his incredible tally to seven victories from seven starts.