MOTORBIKE racer Russell Taylor is determined to make up for lost time by securing a podium finish when he returns to the track this weekend.

The Rayleigh rider contested the first three rounds of the MRO Minitwins season before a lack of funds forced him to miss the rounds at Oulton Park, Doninginton and Cadwell Park.

But having saved the £1,000 he needs to race, Taylor will be in action on the Brands Hatch GP circuit this weekend.

“I can’t wait to get back out there,” said a delighted Taylor, who rides a Suzuki SV650.

“It’s been a long time since I was on track and I’ve been scratching my head wondering how to fill the time.

“I’m confident of getting a podium and if luck is on my side then I could get a win.”

The full length GP track is Taylor’s favourite, although he has only competed on it twice.

But he heads into the four-race weekend tenth in the championship with 125 points after a strong start which saw him get a race win on Brands’ Indy circuit and further points at Snetterton and Silver-stone.

There are two rounds after the three-day meeting at Brands.

Taylor still harbours ambitions of riding next year’s Isle of Man TT race and is keen to hear from would-be sponsors.

Anyone interested in backing the rider can contact him at taylor10_66@hotmail.com.