Fermanagh rider Lee Johnston fifth in Macau GP

Lee Johnston was the top Northern Ireland finisher in last year's Macau GP

Fermanagh rider Lee Johnston finished fifth in Saturday's Macau Grand Prix in the Far East.

Johnston came in 24 seconds behind winner Stuart Easton while Crumlin's Stephen Thompson was back in 10th.

Meanwhile, three international riders competing in Macau have signed up to race in next year's North West 200.

American Brandon Cretu, South Africa's Allan Ventner and Andre Pires of Portugal are the new faces while German Didier Grams returns for a second time.

"We are thrilled to have snapped up three top names to come to Northern Ireland," said Race Director Mervyn Whyte.

"It's important that we continue to attract riders from as far a field as possible to maintain the international feel of the event."

Scotsman Easton won by 14 seconds from Michael Rutter in second with Martin Jessop completing the podium.

Johnston, who won two races in May's NW 200, improved on his ninth-place finish from last year.