Rapid Solicitors Kawasaki's Shane Byrne put one hand on his third MCE British Superbike title at Brands Hatch today, winning race one while his closest rivals either crashed or just got on to the podium.

Byrne rode a faultess race, leading into turn one and never being headed. A rain shower, which caused Alex Lowes to crash out, brought a halt to the encounter and the local man now leads Josh Brookes by 18 points with 50 on the table tomorrow.

"I have a feeling of relief, but also it is so good to have the race win. I was trying to do the maths a couple of laps earlier as I didn't want the race to be stopped before a result could be declared," said Byrne.

"Coming through Clearways the last time it was horrible, the bike was snaking all over the place, so I am really pleased to take this win. Looking to the final two races, we've got a good race setting, I'm confident of my race pace and just hope the weather is good and I can stay ahead of these guys again."