Wiltshire swearbox Tommy Bridewell will remain with the Supersonic BMW team in British Superbikes for the whole of 2012 after signing a deal with team boss Danilo Soncini yesterday.

Bridewell was rushed in as a last minute replacement for the departed Anthony West and initially only had a deal for the Brands Hatch and Thruxton rounds. But he has gelled with the Italian squad so well they have extended the contract to cover the whole year.

“My first impression is very good. I was racing in Italy in 2008 so I obviously have quite a bit of passion for the Italians. I felt really comfortable, almost like at home. In the first two rounds, I was a bit careful, not giving it more than 85 per cent. I wanted to get some good results but mainly find a good feeling with the bike. Now I’m ready to give it 110 per cent," said the strawberry blonde rider.

"I know how hard I have to ride to run towards the front. I know what it takes and I honestly believe that within the next three rounds, you’ll see us running a consistent top six – that’s what my target is. We have a lot of learning to do with the bike, the team has a lot of learning with me, so the next round – Oulton park – is yet another massive challenge for us.”