Workington Comets manager Tony Jackson labelled Cleator race ace Craig Cook "a class apart" as his new captain dominated the Cumberland Open Championship.

Stern challenges came from former Comets Charles Wright and Ricky Wells and Redcar’s Ben Barker but Cook was stellar, winning all of his five rides by some distance to take the title in his first meeting back at Workington.

Comets fans have long felt a sense of unfinished business with Cook, and Jackson hopes his superb performance on Saturday is a sign of things to come.

He said: “Craig looked a class apart.

“I think the crowd quite enjoyed it and he was obviously a popular winner.

“Craig was going through the meeting with his team-mates in the pits, talking to them all and giving them tips.

“I think there are a lot of positives to take from it.”

The season-opening individual competition was being staged for the first time since 2013 and Jackson was pleased with the entertainment on offer, praising all of his riders for their contributions.

He said: “I thought Ben Barker was very competitive, especially in that last race, and Ricky Wells showed he still knows his way round the place.

“Ty Proctor was quite tired and even thought of pulling out of his last ride but it was a good job he didn’t because he won it.

“Thomas Jorgensen started well then had mechanical problems.

“That’s what these meetings are all about, not only getting yourself fit but getting your bikes fit before the serious stuff starts next weekend.”