Roydon's Gavin Taber wins the Classic Hot Rods English Points Championship in his Ford Anglia

As far as birthdays go, Gavin Taber will have enjoyed few more than his latest one.

The Roydon-based racer turned 34 last weekend and he celebrated in style by wrapping up the Classic Hot Rods English Points Championship in his Ford Anglia, as well as finishing an impressive third in the Best In Britain race at Hednesford.

It had not always been a straightforward campaign for Taber, who is the managing director of Roydon Service Station and director of Lopham Vehicle Services.

An engine problem at the season’s halfway point left him with ground to make up, but he recovered in positive fashion to eventually be crowned champion.

“It is a year-long thing and a really big achievement,” he said.

“We got off to a good start and then had the engine problem, which made things tough.

“It was far from easy even when things were going well, but we have been the most consistent car.

“We were pushed all the way, so it was great to come out on top.

“It has been a real family effort with my wife and kids always there to support me and without the likes of Becky, Freddie, Rosie, Adrian, Jack, Graham, Mick and my mum – who all give up their spare time to help over the year – it would not have been possible.”

What happens next is still under consideration. Taber is intending to continuing racing, but he is not sure yet if he will be committed enough to launch a full defence of his title.

“There is a lot of effort and travel that goes into it,” he added.

“I am not saying that I will not try to defend it, but we will see.

“It takes a lot to maintain a car mechanically and with work and having a family, I am not sure yet if I have that time to give up again.”

Taber was also keen to thank his sponsors, namely Lopham Vehicle Services, Roydon Service Station, TS Scaffolding, Diss Car Parts & Accessories, AM-Vas, EU Diss, Jamie Plane Signs and Cattermoles of Ipswich Ltd, who have just come on board following his English Points Championships success.

Anyone else interested in sponsoring Taber for the 2019 season and beyond can contact 07834 153419 for more information.