Alastair thrilled, as Hickman hails

my first target this weekend and I’ve reached it on the first night.”

In perfect conditions for the first race, Jessopp led into Mill Road roundabout too quickly, hit the roundabout and chaos ensued behind. Some riders, taking evasive action, went the wrong side, allowing Seeley, Lee Johnston and Adam McLean to break clear at the front.

Johnston eventually took third on his Padgett’s Honda with James Hillier (Kawasaki) in second.

Hickman was overjoyed to grab his first North West win in the Superstock race.

“Finally, a win here,” he smiled. “It’s great for the Smiths team who put the money into the sport. I knew I was faster on the Coast Road and made my move at Juniper. I got clean past him(Seeley)onthebrakes—he let his brakes off, I said no way and let mine off again and we touched, but I managed to hold it together to take my first win.”

Seeley commented: “I bided my time again in a big freight train of riders, trying to save my tyres. I had a bit of a weave in the last two laps, but I thought I had it until Hicky came up the inside into Juniper.

“I let the brakes off, so did he, we touched and I was heading for the kitty litter. My motocross experience told and I stayed on and brought it home second. No worries about Peter’s move. I must remember that.”

Third-placed Michael Dunlop admitted: “I had a bit of a slide at Juniper, but that’s what happens. I’ll just keep the head down and keep battling on.”

Third-placed Supertwin rider Joey Thompson revealed Michael’s late uncle and legend Joey inspired him to come to the North West from Yorkshire,