Martin Jessopp will make a return to the MCE British Superbike Championship in 2013 but has opted to make a switch to BMW power instead of fielding a Ducati Panigale as expected.

The West Country rider has been a regular contender in the championship, scoring top ten finishes and just missing out on a maiden podium finish at Donington Park in 2012. Jessopp competed in the World Supersport Championship last season but now is turning his attention back to Britain as he prepares to return stronger and determined to claim a position in the coveted end-of-season Showdown.

"I have unfinished business in BSB and that is why I want to get back out there again. I think I took a year away at the wrong time in hindsight; at the time it was for the right reasons but I left when I was at my strongest position in the championship," said Jessopp.

"It feels good to be back and on a competitive bike and everyone has seen that the BMW is a strong package in BSB. I want to start the season and straight away pick up where we left off; there is no time to settle in and get comfortable but because I have raced the BMW before I don't think it will be an issue. We have the bikes stripped down at the moment and planning our test schedule so we can be ready for Brands Hatch. I want to be back up and fighting at the front and definitely pushing for the Showdown."