British Superbikes: Alex Lowes becomes youngest champion

Lincoln's Alex Lowes became the youngest ever British Superbike champion after his second-placed finish in the final race at Brands Hatch.

The twin brother of World Supersport champion Sam, clinched the title ahead of three-times winner Shane Byrne.

The 23-year-old celebrated his victory with a MotoGP deal with Paul Bird Motorsport for next year.

"This is a day I'll remember for the rest of my life," the Honda rider told BBC Radio Kent.

"It's the best feeling in the world, and not just for me but the whole team who have worked so hard for this."

Derbyshire-based Lowes needed to finish ahead of Byrne in the last race of the season to secure his first major title after both crashed out of the preceding race on Sunday.

Australia's Josh Brookes completed his treble of wins at Brands Hatch, ahead of the new champion with Byrne in third.

Derby-based Lowes said his exit from Race Two of the rain-soaked weekend helped him for the final showdown.

"The feeling when I first crashed out was that the pressure was taken off me," Lowes said.

"By the time I got back to the garage, Shaky [Byrne] had unfortunately crashed and suddenly it was a one race championship.

"In those last few laps, I put my absolute heart into it.

"I also have to thank Shane because he's helped me be the person I am and racer I am."