Startline Ep 65 - From the hedge to the TT podium: Simon Warren and Team Melbray
Start Line with Beth Espey
Thursday, 15 October 2026 - 44 minutes
What happens when a lifelong TT enthusiast decides that watching from the hedge isn't quite enough?
For Simon Warren, the answer is Melbray Racing - a team that has gone from a chance conversation and a dream to standing on the podium at the Isle of Man TT in a remarkably short space of time.
In this episode of Startline, we discover how Simon's childhood fascination with motorcycles, a chance encounter with Glen English and a love of classic racing led him into the extraordinary world of team ownership.
It's a journey involving a race bike rebuilt in a tiny plastic garden shed, a memorable first meeting with Michael Dunlop, podium success with Glen English and Dom Herbertson, and an increasingly successful partnership with Eddie Laycock and legendary racer Mike Browne.
But Simon's story is about much more than results. He speaks candidly about the pressures of running a team, the responsibility of keeping riders safe, the financial realities of racing and the agonising minutes spent waiting for a rider to come home.
There are plenty of laughs along the way, some genuinely moving moments and a fascinating insight into the differences between the Classic TT and the TT paddocks.
And with ambitious plans already taking shape for 2027, it seems Melbray Racing's remarkable journey is only just beginning.
Above all, it's a story about what makes Isle of Man road racing so special – and how a lifelong fan can end up becoming part of its history.
You can follow Simon on Facebook here and Melbray Racing on Instagram here
The Startline podcast is brought to you in partnership with the Manx Motorcycle Club, the Promoter and Rights holder for the Manx Grand Prix. Startline is on Facebook and Instagram, so please give the pages a follow and keep up to date with the latest episodes and see some extra content, you can find some great photos on there.
And if you'd like to be part of the podcast, you can email beth@startline.im
