Yate’s Luke Hedger had a big task ahead of him at the first Bennetts British Superbikes official test at Silverstone, where he was part of a new team and riding aboard a new manufacturer.

Having switched from Kawasaki to the Suzuki GSXR he completed all four sessions throughout the day, getting a fastest lap time of 55.510 and placing10th overall.

Challenging weather conditions meant only six laps were possible during the second test at Snetterton.

Speaking at Snetterton Luke said: “So the first test was awesome.

“For my first test day back after winter and my first time on the Suzuki I got down to some fast times quickly, finishing only 0.4 off top spot.

“I am mega happy and I can’t thank my team enough for their hard work and the work they did over the winter period.

“I am looking forward to the next test to see how far I can really push the bike now.

"I would like to thank everyone who has taken up their time and supported me to get me out racing this year, after the pandemic having such an traumatic effect on local businesses I am overwhelmed with the amount of sponsorship we have managed to get, so a special thanks to Kiwi Voice, Data Track Demons, 1st Choice Flooring, Dave Siney & Sons, Thomas & Forrest Construction, Bird67, R&G, Essence of Nature and Pro53ltd.”

Team manager Tom Jones said: “It was great to see all three of our riders finally together and on track after a long winter so it’s good to see that the hard work from the team and the riders has been worth it as we were pleased with how Silverstone went.

"All three of the riders worked very well and are already up to speed, and we are looking forward to the rest of the testing with Luke, Ash and Brent.”

The next stop for the Jones Dorling Racing team will be the third official Bennetts British Superbikes test at the rural MSV Oulton Park circuit where there will be spectators for the first time since 2019.