A KINGSWINFORD motorcyclist is raring to get on the road to show off his new Mexican themed custom paintwork which has won a national competition launched by Harley-Davidson UK and Ireland.

Harley-Davidson rider Paul Brothwood, aged 38, was overjoyed to win the competition after submitting pictures of the new custom artwork he had commissioned for his bike during lockdown.

A raft of photographs were submitted by the American brand’s fans and motorcycle owners when they were asked what they had been up to during the coronavirus lockdown but it was images of Paul's eye-catching motorcycle art that won the public vote on social media - netting him a new Harley-Davidson helmet.

Paul, assistant director of Wolfruna Chapter, said: “Lockdown has been a challenge for us all. As I was not able to ride my bike, I took the opportunity to have it fully customised.

“The artwork is inspired by Frida Kahlo (Mexican theme) and thanks to social media I was able to find an artist that could assist."

Matthew Sharpe, owner of OdiousRule - who applied the detailed paintwork after Paul heard about his business on social media, said: "It was great to work virtually and create such a unique piece of art. To have national recognition like this is exciting. I look forward to customising the new Harley-Davidson helmet Paul has won."

Paul Lilly, market leader for Harley-Davidson UK and Ireland, said of the competition: “We wanted to create a fun and engaging opportunity for our community to share examples of what they’ve been up to during lockdown, be that suspect DIY home haircuts or inspiring custom bike projects. We had some amazing entries, and it was great to see the level of support and positivity come through our community. We wanted to provide some alternative entertainment and our entrants certainly brought the fun.

"Paul Brothwood’s inspirational custom artwork is a worthy winner and we look forward to providing him with his new Harley-Davidson helmet, which will accompany Paul and his HOG Chapter to Russia, hopefully in the summer.”

Paul, who started riding Harley-Davidsons in 2018, said he's looking forward to touring Europe in the summer, if Covid-19 rules permit, and he added: "My Chapter has a route mapped out to Moscow, which we are all very excited about.”