Former Riders Ducati British Superbike competitor Martin Jessopp will switch to the World Supersport Championship in 2012 and partner Sam Lowes in the PTR Honda team.

Jessopp scored some respectable results in 2011, finishing ahead of the likes of Josh Brookes at Silverstone, before trying his luck at WSS at Magny-Cours alongside Gino Rea on the Step Honda. The Somerset rider didn't make it on to the grid but is determined to make a good fist of it next year.

The 26-year-old, who still has the backing of his dad's bike shop, will get his first outing on his PTR Honda early in the New Year at a private test in Europe before a further test at Philip Island in Australia ahead of the opening round of the 2012 Championship at the same circuit on 26th February.

“I am over the moon to have 2012 all sorted. I said at the end of the 2011 season my objective was to get into the World Championship and Supersport was my best opportunity. I sat down with my team and Riders and we wanted a squad at the sharp end of the Championship so I would know I had a good bike and proven package," said Jessopp.

"The British Based PTR team was my number one choice and to get a ride with them was brilliant – it’s not often that a racer gets his first choice so I can honestly say I could not be happier.

“There is no expectations at the moment but I will put plenty of pressure on myself as the season approaches. I just need to go testing and complete loads of laps and learn the bike and develop my relationship with the team. It is all new to me and I need to go out there and get up to pace.

“Having a fast team mate like Sam Lowes on the same PTR Honda will be excellent. I enjoyed a bit of craic with Sam at Magny Cours this year when I was a wild card entry and he was helping me out then with some advice and ideas. That’s a big help and a fantastic support from him and the team. I can’t wait to get riding.”