Bruce Anstey claimed a hugely popular victory in the three-lap Dunlop Lightweight Classic TT on Saturday evening.

The Manx Kiwi marked his return to competitive action around the Mountain Course after serious illness with a comfortable one minute and 10 second win over Padgett’s team-mate Davey Todd.

After guiding his 250cc Honda to top spot, Anstey said: ’These last two years have been really tough on me and my partner Annie. I can’t believe I’m here back in the winner’s enclosure.’

Todd added: ’I’m so pleased Bruce got the win. It’s incredible after what he’s been through.’

James Hind completed a remarkable comeback to overcome Ian Lougher for third. Problems with the fuel cap on the 19-year-old’s Yamaha at the pit stop at the end of the first lap were compounded by a 30-second penalty for pit-lane speeding. However the teenager produced two flying last laps to beat veteran Lougher to the final podium place by 10 seconds on corrected time.

Full report and reaction in Tuesday’s Isle of Man Examiner.

The Classic TT continues on Bank Holiday Monday with two further races.