The 36 year old from Nottinghamshire will join existing rider Gregorio Lavilla in the team for the remaining five rounds commencing at Brands Hatch over the weekend of August 1/2/3rd.

Walker, four times a runner-up in the British Superbike Championship, has been racing in the World Supersport Championship this season but hasn't enjoyed the best of luck on his Kawasaki so the rider who has 138 WSB races and twelve podiums under his belt is relishing the opportunity of racing a superbike again.

After a successful test at Oulton Park yesterday aboard the team's recently built 1000cc Honda Fireblade, both Walker and team owner Paul Bird were delighted to shake on the deal which will see 'The Stalker' as the only permanent British rider in the series.

"When I set off on the bike, it very nearly pulled my wig off and it reminded me of just what I've been missing in Superbikes!" said Walker. "It's a massive opportunity for me and one which I don't intend to waste. Everyone knows this team has pedigree and they build awesome bikes so I know it will be competitive. I nearly signed for Birdy a few years ago and didn't so now I'm really looking forward to working with the team and also Greg whom I have a lot of respect for. I love Brands and Donington and my aim is to give the crowds something to cheer about so make sure you come along and support me!"

Team owner Paul Bird commented: "Running a second bike was always in the plan but we felt it best to help concentrate on giving Greg the best package possible. But now we have a couple of races at tracks both he and the team know, the time is right to introduce Chris who like Greg, knows his way round Brands and Donington. The plan thereafter is to go to the final three rounds brim full of confidence and get some results abroad that we know the bike and riders are capable of. It's important for the organisers that we bring a British rider to the series and I'm delighted to have Chris on board."

Name: Chris Walker
DOB: 25/03/1972
Lives: Newark, Notts

2002: 9th World Superbike Championship
2003: 6th World Superbike Championship
2005: 7th World Superbike Championship
2006: 6th World Superbike Championship

WSB Stats:
Starts: 138
Podiums: 12
Wins: 1 (Assen 2006)
Seconds: 1
Thirds: 10

Remaining rounds:

Aug 1/2/3 - Brands Hatch, UK
Sept 5/6/7 - Donington Park, UK
Sept 19/20/21 - Vallelunga, Italy
Oct 3/4/5 - Magny Cours, France
Oct 24/25/26 - Portimao, Portugal