Cal Crutchlow ensured the Union Jack would fly higher than any other during the British round of the World Supersport Championship at Donington Park after taking a dominant victory on home ground.

The only circuit on the calendar that Crutchlow knows intimately, although he endured a torrid weekend at times – particularly when he broke a bone in his ankle following an accident during free practice -, in clear air he was untouchable.

Fending off the early attentions of Joan Lascorz, although Crutchlow admits he was disappointed to see key title rival Eugene Laverty fall out of contention early on, he was delighted to emerge the victor at a crucial stage in the championship.

“It was great to come here in front of the home fans at Donington. I thought we could have a good go between me and Eugene but it wasn't to be, unfortunately he fell off. All credit to him for getting back up to fifth. It was a very hard race for me, it's pretty mentally challenging when you're out there on your own.

“It was one of those races where you just try to keep your composure and reel the laps off. All credit to Yamaha they put a fantastic package in front of me this weekend. I got injured in the first lap of free practice which didn't make it easy for us but we've done a good job in the end!"

Despite Laverty's fine fight back to fifth position, Crutchlow's win puts him 28 points ahead of the Parkalgar Honda rider in the standings with five races remaining.