Twenty-two young racing hopefuls have been picked for the 2018 British Talent Cup following a rigorous selection process at Silverstone today.

Ninety riders were invited to try out at the MotoGP track in front of judges Alberto Puig, Jeremy McWilliams and Shuei Nakamoto.

After an intial riding session, the herd was thinned to 50 and then again to 35 before the final selection was made. Newly crowned World 85cc MX Champion Eddie Jay Wade was among those who made it on to the reserve list.

“It’s been a hectic day, and it’s stressful for us and the kids! The kids ride on the limit to impress but it’s a process that brings out the best, as we found out today. It’s the start of an incredible journey for the riders who have been selected - and maybe even for some of the reserve riders,” said McWilliams.

“We would love to fit more in but we’re limited on space. This is where it begins for all these riders, to hopefully becoming professional motorcycle racers - and approaching it a professional manner. Racing has been fun for them, and now they’re stepping into a bigger arena. I’m looking forward to seeing them progress and helping them in any way I can, as is everyone involved.”

The 22 selected are:

Charlie Atkins 14
Franco Bourne 13
Jonathan Campbell 14
Harvey Claridge 12
Adon Davie 12
Charlie Farrer 15
Brian Hart 15
Jack Hart 15
Cameron Horsman 16
Rhys Irwin 15
Sam Laffins 15
Scott Ogden 13
Lewis Paterson 16
Fenton Seabright 15
Storm Stacey 14
Thomas ‘Nipper’ Strudwick 15
Scott Swann 14
Ross Turner 13
Joshua Whatley 11
Max Cook 14
Jack Nixon 16
Jamie Davis 12

Reserve riders

Mathew Bower 15
Jacob Clark 14
Elliot Pinson 14
Annabel Thomas 13
Eddie Jay Wade 14
George Hopper 13