Peel resident Andrew Pitt was 11th in the final round of the World Supersport Championship at Portimao in Portugal yesterday.

It meant the defending champion came sixth in the overall standings.

Speaking after the race Pitt said, "We changed the bike setting for the race, but went the wrong way and ended up fighting a front end problem we've had all weekend - and a lot of the season - the bike just not turning.

"It was bouncing across the corners and I didn't really feel comfortable at all.

"I'd like to thank the crew for all the efforts they've made all year to turn things around, but I guess it just hasn't been our year".

He also paid tribute to fellow Hannspree Ten Kate rider Kenan Sofuoglu, who came second in the race, describing him as a "great guy to have as a team-mate".

Cal Crutchlow is the new World Supersport champion in his debut season at this level.

He did enough to take the title by coming fourth at Portimao, meaning he finished seven points clear of Eugene Laverty, who won the race.

Sofuoglu was third overall, some way behind the top two.

There was some consolation for Pitt and Sofuoglu though as Honda won its seventh consecutive World Supersport manufacturers title, with Hannspree Ten Kate the top Honda outfit.