LEON Haslam's return to form made him the top British Superbike rider in front of his home fans at Donington Park yesterday, writes

Paul Watson

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The Smalley star claimed a second place in the second of the two World Superbike Championship races after he had grabbed fourth spot in his first outing.

The result ended a series of disappointing outings for the Stiggy Honda man, who made a remarkable start to the season by earning podium places in Australia and Holland. As the sun eventually shone at the Derby circuit, Haslam, watched by family and friends, was given a rousing reception by fans who spilled on to the track to hail his achievement.

While American Ben Spies took his Yamaha to a double triumph, after having won the first race from Italian Max Biaggi (Aprilia), the Donington fans lauded Haslam as the hero.

A delighted Haslam said: "The last few rounds have been tough for me, with new circuits and all, but I've really been looking forward to getting back here to Donington, especially in front of these guys (the fans).

"They helped me give that little bit more.

"To be fair, we had a few problems in both races with the bike. I was struggling a little bit but second place, well I'm over the moon with that.

"I have to take the success when I can."

As Spies disappeared into the distance, Haslam was left to fight it out for second place with fellow Brit Shane Byrne (Ducati) and Italian Michel Fabrizio (Ducati).

First Byrne applied the pressure. Then in the closing stages the 26-year-old came under attack from Fabrizio.

But Haslam's knowledge of the circuit, where his father, former grand prix ride Ron, has a racing school, helped him to stay ahead.

He said: "I had to keep the others at bay while Ben, who I said would be the man on the day, went seven seconds away.

"I just wanted to hold my position and the last few laps I was under pressure. I know my way round here and I had to ride very defensively.

"It was great to do it for the British fans as well. I can go home now and I'm looking forward to that and some rest before the next round."

Haslam moved up one place in the championship standings, leapfrogging Biaggi, who crashed out of the second race.

Japanese star Noriyuki Haga crashed his Ducati spectacularly in the second race but still leads the championship ahead of Spies.

The series will take a mid-season break with the next round at Brno, in the Czech Republic, at the end of July.