Shane Byrne heads into the fourth round of the British Superbike Championship looking to extend his slender lead at the top of the standings.

The Sittingbourne bike ace, racing for the HM Plant Honda team, currently leads the way by three points ahead of the fourth round of the championship this weekend.

Hot on his tail is American challenger John Hopkins and Suzuki rider Stuart Easton.

Byrne (pictured) leads the way thanks to two victories, a couple of thirds and one fourth place from the opening six races. He is buoyed by victory in the last race and wants to taste more champagne this weekend.

“I really want to maintain that momentum,” he said.

”The track should suit the HM Plant Honda from a performance point of view.

“Thruxton is all about speed and I think with a few more steps before the race we should be back up the front again and challenging for some more wins and those podium credits.”