HASLINGDEN’S Tom Carne is feeling optimistic about his first foray into the National Superstock 600 Championship after an encouraging test in Spain.

Carne has joined the Motobreakers team in the Superstock series, a support event for the British Superbikes Championship, and travelled to Spain to start preparations for the 2015 season.

The first race is at Donington on April 6 and Carne is feeling hopeful for the new season after linking up with his new team, after competing in the Triumph Triple Challenge in 2014.

“The ZX6R felt fantastic and very fast,” he said.

“The team manager Shaun Rose and his wife Ange are among the best in the paddock. They will do anything to help, they are very friendly and accommodating.

“My team-mate Wayne Ryan was a pleasure to work with, too. We have a lot in common and have past race experience together from our Mini Moto days.

“Peter Clifford our crew chief was fantastic with technical data and he is very highly respected in the paddock.

“Overall the bike was very responsive and felt a lot better than the Triumph in many ways.

“Our time in Spain was very beneficial and productive, and a good opportunity to gel with the team.

“I’m really looking forward to the start of the season now.”