A Huntingdon speedway star is chasing European glory – and also looking ahead to a return to the world stage.

The Hunts Post: Huntingdon-based speedway rider Kenneth Bjerre. Picture: IAN CHARLESHuntingdon-based speedway rider Kenneth Bjerre. Picture: IAN CHARLES (Image: (C)2017 Ian Charles This image is the copyright of Ian Charles and is supplied for your use only. It is forbidden to pass this im)

Danish racer Kenneth Bjerre, who has been based in the town for almost a decade, has a massive summer ahead.

He successfully came through the Speedway Euro Championship (SEC) Challenge in Croatia last weekend when an 11-point haul earned him one of seven qualifying spots in the four-round final.

He will now begin his challenge for success at Polish venue Torun on June 30 before the series heads to German track Gustrow on July 15 and Hallstavik, in Sweden, on August 5.

It then returns to Poland for a conclusion at Lublin on September 16, when Bjerre hopes to be on the top step of the podium.

“It’s a great opportunity to win a major title,” said Bjerre. “The SEC is one of the big prizes in speedway and I’m going all out for it.

“I’m feeling fast, my bikes are great and I believe I have a big chance to be successful.”

But before he plots his European challenge, Bjerre has another big date looming large on the horizon.

He was named as the wildcard for the Danish SGP, a round of the World Championship, today. It was a belated birthday present for a rider who turned 33 earlier this week.

That meeting takes place at Horsens on June 24 and Bjerre is determined to put in a good display to prove he is worthy of a return to the sport’s top table.

Bjerre has competed in five full World Championship campaigns in the past, twice finishing seventh in the overall standings and winning the Swedish GP of 2010.

He added: “It has always been my goal to return to the SGP series since last being involved in 2014.

“I’m delighted to have the chance to race in my home SGP next month and I will do everything in power of make the most of the chance.

“I’ve had a great start to the year in the leagues around Europe and I know I’m capable of beating all the top guys in the world.”

Bjerre is riding regularly in four countries this year. He represents Belle Vue Aces in the UK, Indianerna in Sweden, Tarnow in Poland and Holstebro in his native Denmark.