Twickenham biker Tony Perrin's dream of a top-five finish in the DesmoDue Ducati Race Series has been dealt a fatal blow due to a lack of funds.

The 31-year-old IT contractor had landed a factory ride for the coming season but a shortage of cash has forced him to withdraw.

Perrin had to quit last season's series for similar reasons, but hasn't given up on the idea of competing for the title in 2008.

"Although my bike is sponsored it still costs around a £700-a-weekend to ride and I just haven't got that to spend," he said this week.

"It was a hard decision to make, but if the money isn't there what can you do?

"With any luck I will be back next year."

Fellow Ducati racers Jason Boswell, of Strawberry Hill, and Phil Clarke, from St Margarets, have returned from three days testing in Spain in preparation for the coming campaign.

Novice Boswell is making his debut in this year's championship, which kicks off at Brands Hatch in Kent on Sunday, April 14.

The 38-year-old believes he is ready to hit the track running.

"Testing went well and we improved lap times right the way through the weekend," he added.

"We both took the opportunity to find the right settings for suspension, gearing, and controls, which is invaluable for the start of the season."