TAUNTON stock car racer Ian Govier is still enjoying racing 36 years on from his debut.

The County Gazette covered Govier's debut race, back in April 1987 and 36 years on he is still very much a successful racer in the National Series.

Currently, he races two 2L engine cars that are armoured with over a tonne of steel, definitely an upgrade in vehicle choice from 1987.

"Even after 36 years racing, I still enjoy this so, so much, I love it.

Somerset County Gazette: Top, a 15-year-old Ian ready for his first race, and bottom Ian now, in 2022, still racingTop, a 15-year-old Ian ready for his first race, and bottom Ian now, in 2022, still racing

"It is a real thrill and I am looking forward to the season ahead, especially racing in front of my home crowd at Smearthorpe Stadium on Good Friday."

The stadium which is in between Honiton and Taunton always has a good sized crowd of racing lovers.

"It is great to see the home crowds at Smearthorpe Stadium, it really is a good sight.

"If you are looking for something to do on Good Friday, why not come and enjoy a night of racing under the flood lights."

Govier has set himself some goals from the season ahead.

"My main target this year is to qualify for the World Final in Skegness later this year.

"I have been able to qualify for ten years in a row and it would be good to do it again, currently I am just outside the qualification spot so there is a bit of work to do."

Ian Govier's vehicles are kindly sponsored by a number of local businesses and he said he is very grateful for their support.

Somerset County Gazette: Ian Govier with sponsors Mark Johnson from Cherry Tree Interiors and Clary and Simon Binding from The Queens' Arms, Pitminster.Ian Govier with sponsors Mark Johnson from Cherry Tree Interiors and Clary and Simon Binding from The Queens' Arms, Pitminster.

"I would not be here and able to race without my sponsors so to them I say thank you.

"Mark Johnson from Cherry Tree Interiors and Clary and Simon Binding from The Queens' Arms, Pitminster have been a huge help for me this season so thank you to them.

"Plymcrete, Autospaces and Helisport are also great sponsors of mine."

For fans of Ian Govier or stock car racing fans in general, you can get an idea of how a race event feels by going down to Smearthorpe Stadium on Good Friday.

To get your tickets to this event, visit - http://www.autospeed.co.uk/race-meetings/previews/good-friday-15th-april-2022.ashx