ORLETON ace Roger Moran said it will be strange not driving in mainstream racing following his retirement from the MSA British Hillclimb Championship last weekend.

The veteran driver and 1997 British champion is stepping down from the large capacity racing car class.

His seat will be taken next year by Alex Summers, from Tenbury Wells, who has driven very well in a DJ Firehawk with great success.

Moran bowed out of the championship with a fourth and fifth place finish at Loton Park.

His son Scott, meanwhile, finished second and third on the back of winning his fifth championship.

"It will feel a bit weird not competing because I've been doing it since 1988," said Roger.

"But there's nothing to say that I won't be returning.

"I will still be about and will still helpScott and Alex.

"Wallace Menzies will also have the same car as us, so I will do some events with him."

Roger said he was delighted to see Scott to become only the fourth driver in history to win five titles.

"I was going to pack it in at the end of last season, but I wanted Scott to get another championship and I was thrilled that he did," he said.

"During the 18 years, I have been on the podium 15 times and our Gould GR61X car has won 138 run-offs, making it the most successful hillclimb car.

"That is quite special and something I am proud of."

Roger is currently building a 4x4 Fiesta that he plans to compete in rallies, while he also enjoys walking, gardening and cycling.

Scott's wife Debbie is also expecting her second child next month.

"I will certainly be kept occupied," said Roger.

"I have high hopes that Alex will do well.

"He comes from a nice family and they are all petrol-heads.

"As long as he is sensible, which I am sure he will be, then he will do well."