Top biker stars in computer game

A top biker from across the Shropshire/Welsh border has a starring role in a new all-action computer game which will be released on Friday.

One of the virtual riders in TT Superbikes Real Road Racing Championship, the new Playstation 2 video game, is based on speed king Paul Owen, from Llangollen.

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Gamers will be able to choose to race as 36-year-old Paul, in his leathers, aboard his Kawasaki 1000cc superbike, on circuits from the Isle of Man to Macau in China.

Paul was chosen after meeting Clark Evans, a motorbike enthusiast and the man behind gaming company Jester Interactive.

Mr Evans said: "I got to know Paul at road racing events because I'm a big fan.

"In developing the games - they have done other motorbike-based games for the PlayStation - we have to visit the circuits, map them and recreate them and I met Paul and got to know him.

"We need to make the games as realistic as possible and that means paying attention to the finest details so we can recreate everything in 3D, from circuits to bikes and riders.

"I thought it would be good to represent a talented privateer like Paul as well as the top riders like John McGuinness. I've seen Paul race and he has real ability and speed, so it's good to be able to showcase him."

Paul, who is fresh from competing in the Isle of Man TT series for the 12th time, said: "It's brilliant that Clark has used me in the game. I can't believe it but he's been really helpful to me in my racing. It went really well on the Isle of Man this year and I picked up six trophies and lapped at over 120mph for the first time."

Bike fans can see Paul's collection of powerful TT motorbikes and trophies at the Motorbike Show at the Royal International Pavilion showground on August 2 and 3.

Paul Owen, from Llangollen, in TT action.

Paul Owen, left, has a go at the new game.

The new PlayStation 2 game featuring featuring Paul Owen.