Richards’ fourth victory of the season, his second in succession, moved him up to second place in the final points standings, just four points behind new champion, David Jefferies, who finished fifth in today’s 20-lap race.

"The FireBlade was really strong here, just like it’s been all season," said Richards. "It’s just a shame I had a couple of crashes this year – I think that’s made the difference between winning and losing the championship.  I just kept my head down and concentrated," said the 26-year-old from Adelaide of today’s win. "It’s good to finish with a one-two and I’m happy for the team – they’ve deserved it."

His fellow Australian team-mate, Vermeulen, finished fourth in the championship, taking race wins at Thruxton and Knockhill.

"We didn’t get the chance for any dry testing here," said the 18-year-old, "so it was difficult to find a good set-up for today’s dry conditions. Still, it was a good result for everyone and Glen, especially, has ridden really well all year."

Results (Donington Park, 1.9 miles – 20 laps): 
1 Glen Richards (Sanyo First National Honda) 25m33.104s,
2 Chris Vermeulen (Sanyo First National Honda) +4.185s, 
3 Rob Frost (Yamaha) +4.859, 
4 Gary Mason (Kawasaki) +5.150, 
5 David Jefferies (Yamaha) +6.284, 
6 Andy Tinsley (Honda) +8.888, 
7 Matt Llewellyn (Yamaha) +11.952, 
8 Iain Duffus (Honda) +16.527, 
9 Andy Notman (Yamaha) +16.716, 
10 Ben Askew (Suzuki) +16.943.

Final championship points: 
1 Jefferies 211, 
2 Glen Richards  207, 
3 Llewellyn 193, 
4 Chris Vermeulen 174.