Former BSB star Chris Walker has confirmed he is to switch to Paul Bird's Vent Axia Honda team for the rest of the World Superbike season following a successful test at Oulton Park yesterday.

The Nottinghamshire man, who had been racing in World Supersport with GIL Kawasaki, will join Spaniard Gregorio Lavilla in the team from Brands Hatch onwards.

"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."
And here is GiL Kawasaki's reponse in its entirety: "Kawasaki Gil Motor Sport inform you that the British rider Chris Walker suddenly decided to leave the Team. Yesterday, Wednesday 23rd of July, we discovered on a British website our rider making tests on a HONDA Superbike motorbike.
"Chris Walker didn’t have the courage to confess his decision to his Team Manager during the BRNO race one week ago. However, we know that his decision was already taken because he had his red leather suit (with his colours) to enter the Superbike Championship as soon as BRANDS HATCH en Superbike, despite his contractual obligations.
All the Kawasaki Gil Motor Sport Team is badly surprised by this decision and now we already entered into negotiations with another rider to replace Chris Walker as soon as the race in BRANDS HATCH the next week-end."