With the current lack of British riders to cheer on in SBK, despite the excellent results achieved by Craig Jones, Johnny Rea and, when he's not breaking things, Tommy Hill, we were overjoyed to hear that one of our - and I reckon your - favourite Brits is coming back to SBK. Chris "Stalker" Walker has been languishing down the field trying to adapt to riding a Supersports bike which, in all fairness, wasn't actually very good. That's no good to anyone, and bringing him back to SBK is exactly what we need to revive our flagging spirits. Just in time for a couple of British rounds, too.

So if you possibly can, make a special effort to get to Brands or Donington. Break out the Union Flag and foghorn and give out another 50bhp worth of proper homegrown support to one of the hardest working, most entertaining and above all nicest people in the paddock.

Here's the official press release, anyway:

It has been announced that British rider Chris Walker has been signed for the Vent Axia VK team for the rest of the 2008 FIM Hannspree World Superbike Championship.

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, including one win, under his belt is relishing the opportunity of racing a superbike again.

After a successful test at Oulton Park 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!"

SB