Four-time Olympic champion Sir Chris Hoy made a winning return to the track earlier this month – but admits he feared the worst after almost a year out of action.

The 33-year-old, who topped the podium three times at the Beijing Olympics last year, has largely been absent from the racing scene since returning from the Far East.

Hoy injured his hip six months ago following a crash and insists he suffered an attack of the jitters when he climbed back onto his bike In France.

“There were definitely a lot of nerves because it was such a long time since I had raced,” said Hoy.

“It’s a year since Beijing and I haven’t really raced since then because of the injury and other commitments.

“Being injury has given me time to do other things but now it’s time to knuckle down and get back on the bike.”