The bikes are already on the grid as we await the six-lap Superstock race. Alastair Seeley is again on pole and the Carrickfergus man will be determined to make up for the dsappointment of retiring in the Supersport race. Guy Martin and Bruce Anstey have pulled out because of issues with their bikes.

Somerset man Jessopp says he is "almost lost for words" after his first North West 200 triumph but then goes to articulate just what his victory means.

"We're basically a family-run team. Myself and my old man. It's huge for us. We don't really have any sponsors to worry about but all the boys involved put in a huge amount of work," says the 31-year-old Yeovil Marsh man.

"The Supersport is such a great class. There are so many guys basically with a similar pace so it's a real fight.

"This week is the first time I've ridden the bike since last year's TT so this win is a real thrill."

Jessopp's win also has North West 200 watchers wondering when the last time a Triumph bike earned victory at the meeting.

Image source, Press Eye

English rider Martin Jessopp clinches his first North West 200 victory. Ian Hutchinson finishes second with James Hillier completing the podium places.  

Image source, Press Eye

Martin Jessopp leads by 1.2 seconds going in to the final lap and he is closing in on a first North West 200 victory. He is followed by Ian Hutchinson, James Hillier and Dean Harrison.  

Ian Hutchinson holds a narrow lead over Dean Harrison after three laps. Martin Jessopp is next and then Lee Johnston. 

Alasair Seeley has been forced out of the Supersport race on lap two because of mechanical problems. It's a big blow for the pole-setter and he remains on 17 North West 200 wins.

One lap completed out of six and Ian Hutchinson has moved ahead with Martin Jessopp second and Michael Dunlop third. Alastair Seeley remains fourth but there's still plenty of racing to be done in this race.

Martin Jessopp makes a blistering start and he leads from Ian Hutchinson and Lee Johnston in the Supersports. Alastair Seeley was on pole but he is trailing in fourth after the first few corners.

It doesn't get much better.

The sun is shining down on the Triangle circuit and we're minutes away from the opening race in the 2017 North West 200.

The Supersports are out first and then the Superstocks - Alastair Seeley has been flying in practice and is on pole for both. The 'Wee Wizard' is aiming to add to his record tally of 17 wins at the NW 200. Martin Jessopp topped the times for the Supertwins race, which completes Thursday night's action.

Best wishes go to John McGuinness after the Englishman suffered a suspected broken leg in a practice crash earlier today. We hope the 'Morecambe Missile' has a speedy recovery.

Thanks for joining us for what promises to be a thrilling few hours of road racing.