MCE British Superbike race winner Tommy Bridewell will return to the series in 2017 after signing a deal to ride with Brent Gladwin’s Team WD-40 Kawasaki squad.

The 28-year-old from Devizes man was a podium finisher at Oulton Park last season and set pole position at the Brands Hatch season finale, finishing eleventh in the final standings but was left hanging at the end of last year when team boss Martin Halsall pulled the plug on his BSB operation.

“I’m happy to be teaming up with Brent and pleased to be riding for Kawasaki once again so I’m really looking forward to the season. I know the team has pushed the boat out to ensure I have a really competitive package and that’s the main reason I’m here,” he said.

“They are as determined as me for success and with the help which Kawasaki are giving us, and the reputation on new the ZX-10RR which came so close to winning the title last year, I intend to be challenging from the start.”