YOUNG Andover motorbike racer Jake Archer tasted podium success in front of his home crowd at Thruxton.

The teenage star recorded a third place finish at the Test Valley track in what was a mixed weekend for the talented Andover racer.

Despite his podium success on Saturday the City Lifting rider was plagued by mechanical problems on Sunday and was forced to retire shortly after taking second place in the race.

Archer, who is in second place in the Hel Performance Motostar Championship, went into the weekend looking to bounce back from a tough previous round at Snetterton.

In Friday free practice the Andover youngster posted the fourth quickest time of 1:22.994s – a 10th off the provisional front row.

Archer moved up a place in Q1 with the third quickest time of the session before losing out on pole in Q2 by just 0.150s.

However his impressive time meant he started Saturday’s race on the front row.

Archer made a terrific start to the 10-lap race, taking the lead into the first few corners.

He eventually dropped behind championship leader Charlie Nesbitt and Mike Brouwers but maintained his third spot to earn him a place on the podium, in front of his home crowd.

The 12-lap second race took place on Sunday afternoon.

Archer had a difficult few opening laps as he experienced issues with his gear lever.

The Andover youngster battled on however, catching the front group before making an audacious double overtake in lap eight to take second place.

However he suffered engine problems and was cruelly forced to retire from the race.

Archer said: “Race one was fantastic.

“I was fighting the whole race and it was great to be back on the podium.

“In the second race we had a mechanical problem and that was that. This happens in racing, it’s nobody’s fault.

“One thing I will remember from this weekend is the support the local people gave me. It was great that so many came to cheer me on.“As always thanks to the City Lifting Team and all my sponsors.”

Archer remains in second place in the championship.