SCOTT Redding claimed an impressive tenth place in today’s British Grand Prix at Silverstone, which he finished as both the top production Honda and top British rider.

The 21-year-old rookie rode a determined race in front of his home crowd, overcoming difficulties with a full fuel load in the opening laps, before maintaining a consistent pace to stay ahead of the factory Ducati of compatriot, Cal Crutchlow.

In the final three laps Redding caught and passed Yonny Hernandez, to claim his third top ten finish of the season, also crossing the finish line as the best placed production Honda rider for the fifth race in succession.

Today’s result consolidates Redding’s 12th position in the World Championship standings, with the Honda Gresini rider extending his lead over Cal Crutchlow in 13th and closing to within five points of Alvaro Bautista in 11th.

Redding said: “I’m happy with the result today. At the beginning, with a full fuel load onboard, I was struggling to get the bike stopped and turned.

"This allowed the guys in front of me to pull away a little in the opening laps, but I managed to keep Crutchlow and the other open class Hondas behind me, which was the aim. As the bike got lighter I was able to push harder and settle into a good rhythm.

"I caught Hernandez very late in the race for tenth, but managed to beat him to the line by 1.2s. Finishing as top Brit at the British Grand Prix is always good. I know Smith had a problem in the race, but for me it was good to beat Cal today.”