HOME favourite Ian Wilkinson believes he is rediscovering his form at just the right time ahead of tonight’s Colne Grand Prix.

The Barnoldswick star won the race in 2008 and is hopeful of repeating the trick tonight when he takes to the startline in a competitive field of nearly 80 riders.

MORE TOP STORIES:

Defending champion Graham Briggs (JLT Condor) heads the field, while others include Jon Mould (One Pro Cycling) and Tobyn Horton (Madison Genesis).

But Wilkinson believes he and his team have a chance of tasting overall victory in the race, which is round four of the Elite Circuit Series currently led by Mould.

“I am hoping to do well,” said Wilkinson.

“I had a virus but I am over that now and the form is ok. I had a top-ten in the Stockton Grand Prix over the weekend, which was a good result.

“It’s always a good race and it is great to be riding in front of a home crowd. It’s always a well supported event.”

Team Raleigh GAC have Morgan Kniesky in third and Evan Oliphant in fifth in the overall standings and with four events to come after tonight’s racing in Colne, Wilkinson admits one eye has to go on supporting the overall ambitions of the squad.

But with neither Kniesky or Oliphant on the start sheet the opportunity may well arise for Wilkinson to challenge near the front of the race.

And the 36-year-old is expecting a dramatic night of action.

“It’s always a fast circuit which can bring its own problems,” said Wilkinson.

“The criteriums are so fast and frantic that it tends to end up every man for himself even though you will be trying to support your teammates.”

Wilkinson will be joined in the field by his Team Raleigh GAC teammate Brad Morgan, from Chorley, while Colne’s Sam Boast (Wheelbase Altura MGD) will also be starting.

Cycle Sport Pendle’s Martin Woffindin completes the East Lancashire entry, while Alastair Rutherford will be among the starters riding in the colours of Whalley-based NAB Racing.