DOUGIE Lampkin stepped up his preparations for next month’s Scottish Six-Day Trial with an appearance in Spain.

The Vertigo rider, who will be bidding for an unprecedented 11th win in Scotland from May 1 to 6, came fifth in the three-day Santigosa Trial.

The 41-year-old former world trials champion from Silsden only missed out on a top-four place on a tie break after finishing level on points with World No 6 Jaime Busto, who is less than half Lampkin’s age.

The event was eventually won by Lampkin’s old World championship rival Takahisa Fujinami, who was ranked third in the world last season.

Lampkin’s grand tally of 14 marks over the three days and 93 sections was impressive.

Although slightly frustrated at slipping down the order close to the finish, Lampkin was still pleased with his overall performance.

“I only really came here as a final shakedown before the Scottish, to make sure that both me and the bike were in good shape before we head up to Fort William in a couple of weeks.

"But as always it is impossible just to ride, because as soon as you are back inside the paddock you want to win again,” said Lampkin.

“The guys I have been battling with are riding every week and at the highest level and are all capable of winning at the World Championship, unlike me whose last outing was at a local club trial and last serious competition was back in October last year.

“My bike feels strong and I feel in good shape too. I am happy with the way I am riding, especially under a bit of pressure. All in all, it's job done and we are now ready to move on to Scotland and to try and fight for the win again.”