JONATHAN Perry is in an optimistic mood after starting a new race season in the same way he finished the previous one – as a race-winner.

The Winsford rider stood on the podium four times during Thundersport GB’s Invicta Challenge campaign curtain-raiser at Brands Hatch last weekend.

That included a victory in the Supertwins category on Sunday.

“I think that’s the best start I’ve had,” said the 27-year-old.

“You never quite know what’s going to happen at the opening meeting because you’re unsure who else will show up or how quick any new guys might be.”

Perry, who lives on Middlewich Road, is hoping to use the national-level series as preparation for a second appearance at the Manx Grand Prix later this year.

He impressed on his debut during 2016 in the Newcomers class.

“It would be great to go back – that’s my aim,” added the former Verdin High School pupil.

“I’ve been racing bikes for a while now, and it’s something I’ve always wanted to do but I never really had the money.

“I loved the Manx Grand Prix, and this year is geared towards having another crack at it.”

After qualifying third fastest on his Kawasaki ER-6 on Saturday morning, he crossed the line in third and then second in the races that followed.

He was third again in Sunday’s opener before celebrating a victory later the same day.

Perry added: “I wasn’t sure if I was even going to be there, but my circumstances at work changed and I got a late entry.

“I’m glad I did now!”