Superstock front-runner Chrissy Rouse made his Bennetts British Superbike Championship this morning as he moved into the recently-vacated Movuno.com Halsall Racing Suzuki seat.

The Geordie, who currently lies fourth in the National Stock 1000 championship, hit the track for the first free practice session at Knockhill..

Team manager Colin Wright said: “We had a space available on our superbike and Chrissy was a rider we were interested in speaking to.

“I’ve followed his progress closely for the last few years and I genuinely believe he could be another James Toseland in terms of how he rides, how he handles himself and how he behaves. He’s talented on the bike and intelligent off it, which to me is ideal."

Rouse added: “This is an absolute dream come true for me. Ever since I started racing I wanted to ride in Superbikes so to get an opportunity like this is just incredible. I know it’s going to be a big learning curve but I’m ready for it and willing to work as hard as I have to.”