Steve Plater was a star performer at the North West 200

Eight times North West 200 winner Steve Plater has spoken about how difficult it was to turn his back on road racing.

The Woodhall Spa racer, also twice a winner at the TT races on the Isle of Man, is now concentrating on the World Endurance Championship.

"It was a huge decision to quit the roads. But I wanted to stop while I was still winning," said Plater.

"Having won the last five races I contested at the North West 200, I know I have gone out on a high note."

Plater missed out on adding to his North West tally in 2010 after sustaining neck and arm injuries in a practice session crash.

He spoke fondly of his love affair with the big international road racing event held every may in Northern Ireland.

"I went to the North West as a spectator in 1993 and instantly wanted to be a part of it all," added Plater.

"I returned as a competitor. The mass start, elbow to elbow racing, suited my riding style and I really enjoyed it."

Already signed to ride in the Honda TT Legends team, Plater will line up alongside team-mates John McGuinness and Keith Amor in 2011 as they contest the full Endurance Championship held at venues throughout the world and including a round on home tarmac at Donington Park in August.

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