Buildbase BMW’s James Westmoreland is still in disbelief over his maiden MCE British Superbike pole, and did not expect to do so well during the qualifying session.

The Hull rider clocked a 1’29.726 to go to the top of the timesheets, and set a new lap record in the process. It is also the first time that a Buildbase BMW bike has got on to the front row this season, but Westmoreland would swap all his success today for a chance to secure a place in the Showdown.

“It is a nice way to start the weekend, but it was totally unexpected. I knew in Q1 and Q2 that I felt pretty comfortable. My lap timer wasn't working on the bike so I just went as fast as I could," said Westmoreland, speaking to bikesportnews.com from the circuit.

“I knew my pace was good and I knew I had faster times in me, but I didn’t expect to be on pole for tomorrow’s race, and it feels nice to be in this position and to put the Buildbase BMW on pole.

“In all honestly I would swap today’s pole for two podiums in the race tomorrow and to be in the Showdown, and this is just the start of the hard work and tomorrow is hoping to be two long races. But it will be good to start from pole.”