BISHOP’S Castle-based biker Barry Furber is a man on a mission as he heads to the Isle of Man TT with clear targets in his sights.

The 32-year-old master technician at is aiming for a top-10 finish in the lightweight class on his Suzuki SV650 and a top-30 berth in the Superbikes class on a 1000cc Kawasaki ZX10R, provided by Greenhous Vauxhall.

It follows on from his TT debut last year when he finished 13th in the lightweight class with his Superbikes bow arriving this time around.

Furber, who has been racing for six years, warmed up for the TT at the recent Vauxhall International North West 200 race in Northern Ireland where he was pleased to claim eighth in the Supertwin race, 16th in the Superbikes and was named fastest newcomer in both.

He headed out to the Isle of Man in time for the first practice last weekend before the races start on Saturday.

Last year, Furber won the Wirral 100 Club short circuit championship and now he believes it’s time to step up.

“The TT is the pinnacle in most riders’ eyes,” he said. “There is nothing else quite like the 38-mile course on public roads.

“It’s dangerous as there is not much margin for error and thousands of spectators come to watch every year. Just being a spectator makes the hairs on the back of your neck stand up so you can imagine what it’s like going up to 200mph on some of the straights.”

He estimates bike racing costs around £20,000, making sponsorship from Greenhous and Morris Lubricants so important. He will get through tyres worth around £3,500 in the TT races alone.

“I am very grateful to both companies for their support,” added Barry. “My ambition is to keep moving forward in the TT and to get back there again next year.

“There is also a good relationship between Greenhous and Morris Lubricants. I have worked for Greenhous Vauxhall since I left school.”

The event takes place through to Friday, June 9 with more information on the best vantage points for spectators and facilities available online at iomtt.com

For those unable to travel, coverage and highlights are broadcast by ITV.