Wessex motorsport followers have a real home-grown talent to cheer at Castle Combe on Monday.

Hampshire's Matt Speakman heads for the Wiltshire circuit looking for his second win of the season in round 11 of the Super Coupe Cup.

With the championship not visiting Thruxton, it's Speakman's home race although he's never raced there before.

"I've watched a few times at Combe, but never raced there so it will be a real challenge because most of my rivals have been there before," he said.

"I'll be learning from the moment qualifying begins until the chequered flag is waved."

Not that this will deter Speakman as the young driver is relishing racing his Rover GTi at Combe.

"The first corner (Quarry) has a reputation for catching the best drivers out so I can't wait to give it a go!"

Speakman has already proved himself a fast learner this year.

Three weeks ago he raced at Cadwell Park for the first time and despite a testing track and equally testing conditions, he came away with third place.

The 2004 season has been full of drama for Speakman, from his first victory at Oulton Park, the engine blowing while leading at Silverstone, racing while he was ill at Pembrey, avoiding an accident only to crash out at Brands Hatch then, being forced from the track by a back marker while leading at Snetterton.

"The team have worked hard throughout the year," he says, "and we are all looking forward to a fantastic weekend at Combe, where hopefully I will get that elusive second win."