POCKET rocket Darren Barton hopes to turn his season around at Sunday's British Motorcycle Grand Prix.

The pint-sized Aprillia rider from Hoddlesden had a miserable first half to his year with crack German 125cc outfit Ditter Plastic; his best result a ninth place in Japan.

But he's hoping a great result in the British round will set him up for a cracking end to the season.

Last year Darren, who was ninth in his home GP and also took the British 125cc title, did enough at the Donington Park round to earn a works ride for '96.

And he's determined to prove to team bosses that he's got what it takes to be a 125cc world champ of the future.

He told the Citizen: "I know Donington Park like the back of my hand, so I should be able to run up there with the leaders.

"I've had my problems so far this season - but they've mainly been down to getting used to a new team and new bike.

I'm confident that things are going to start to get better from now on."

The125cc bikes may be small but they boast the closest racing of any of the Grand Prix classes, and Darren will have to fight to earn a dream finish in Sunday's race.

But he's hoping the legendary Donington crowds will be right behind their countryman, urging him on to a good result.

"It really makes a difference when the crowd are behind you," Darren told us. "Seeing so many people lining the circuit It gives you a good feeling and reminds you that they want you to win."

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