TOMMY Bridewell celebrated his first podium finish of the MCE Insurance British Superbike Championship season as he claimed third place at the third round at Snetterton.

The Etchilhampton rider, fourth in the opening race at the Norfolk circuit, improved in the second to claim the second podium finish of the day for his Milwaukee Yamaha team.

In the opening race of the day Bridewell's teammate Josh Brookes finished second, with Bridewell pushing hard in fourth.

Brookes dropped out of contention in the second, leaving Bridewell to carry the team's challenge.

Bridewell said: “We have been making steps forward all weekend and I feel that we have been getting closer here.

"It’s great to be back on the podium as the start of the season hadn’t really completely gone to plan at the first tracks we have been to. We have worked hard to get comfortable with the bike and this weekend I have risked it a bit to get the results and it paid off in race two.

"Shakey Shane Byrne)  and James (Ellison) had the legs on me in the second race at the end, but it was nice to pressure Josh and I feel that we have made some headway.”

Team owner Shaun Muir concluded: “I am obviously happy that we have had two podium finishes for the Milwaukee Yamaha team and for Tommy who has really grown over this weekend.

"He really showed his pace and it was a great result for him and his confidence.”

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