SHEFFIELD’S Richard Lawson says his silver medal in the British Final has only increased his desire for a successful 2021 season.

Lawson won his opening three rides in some style at Belle Vue and breezed straight through to the final with 11-points.

But he wasn’t able to get the drop on eventual winner Rory Schlein, a product of Sheffield’s youth team almost 20 years ago.

Said Lawson: “All my attention turns to regrouping and preparing for what hopefully will be a more ‘normal’ 2021 season. Fingers crossed.

“It was a great night for me. It’s bittersweet in a way to come so close and not pick up the win but all-in-all runner up isn’t bad at all so I’m happy.

“It was challenging out there. Early on it was quite sloppy and visibility was a real issue. Starts were key and choice of racing line in the first corner was difficult but vital.

“The line-up was a mix of experience and youth. It’s really good to see that they’re all coming on good and willing to give everything they can to make it in the sport.

“Ideally I could’ve done with a race under my belt before Monday but luckily I managed to get a few good practice sessions in which helped massively. I also kept myself in pretty good shape so thankfully it all paid off in the end.

Another of Sheffield’s winter signings, Jack Holder, takes his place as wildcard in this weekend’s Grand Prix rounds in Torun.

Holder has enjoyed a stunning season in Poland and his inclusion came as no surprise. Round 7 is on Friday with the deciding round the following night and both meetings are live on BT Sport.