Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ

Afternoon all. It's the second practice day today at the NW200, and I've been speaking to the newcomers again earlier, where we reminded the new riders of the high speeds and safety round this unique circuit. Then it was back on the bus for a more detailed lap of the triangle. Roger Marshall and I provided the commentary on the characteristics of every corner and straight, every camber and rise in the road. Having now had a go round the circuit on Tuesday night, I think that the riders really took everything we said on board, whereas on Tuesday afternoon they perhaps didn't appreciate fully what was in store.

Last night was the Gala Dinner up in the hospitality marquee, with sponsors and the great and good from local government and the tourist board.ΜύAfterwards, a few top class riders were waiting to pick my brain, so we had a rattle round the circuit so I could give themΜύthe benefit of my experience. I'll not let slip who they were, because they're now bound to be favourites come race day on Saturday!

Looking ahead to the practice tonight, I reckon that Rutter, Plater, Anstey, Guy Martin, John McGuinness and a few others will shine as bright as the sunshine we've all been blessed with so far this week. All the riders will reckon that they've got the perfect gearing and set up to nail a good time and get themselves up the grid positions for Saturday.

Adrian and I are now off on a wander round the paddock to get the lowdown on what all the teams and the riders are up to as the clock ticks down towards 5.30pm. We'll report back as soon as we can.