Burns back to BSB.

Ex-GP racer Chris Burns will make a return to the British Superbike championship after signing a deal with AIM Yamaha and will compete with them for the rest of the 2005 season.

Team boss Alistair Flanagan explains the move. "We are pleased to have Chris join the team," says Flanagan. "He is a talent that needs to be back on a bike and is no stranger to racing Yamahas. He had a short time with Virgin Yamaha, several years ago, so I am keen to give Chris ago on the AIM bikes for the remainder of the season.

"After Knockhill I was speaking to Jack Valentine about the current situation. We started talking about ex-GP rider Chris Burns, Jack mentioned to me that Chris was still looking for a ride. I had a meeting with Chris and I was surprised with how fit he was. This showed the type of commitment he has and he looked in top condition. Whilst talking to Chris I was given a clear message that he is still hungry for the competition of motorcycle racing. I have signed Chris till the end of the 2005 season."

Chris himself is pleased to be back and can't wait to be out in action as the series hits Snetterton this weekend. "I am very pleased to be back in BSB, it has been hard sitting at home watching the racing," he said. "Since I left BSB and went to GPs I have gained a lot of experience in both racing and the setup of a top performance bike. I feel coming back into BSB will be hard and may take a few rounds to get back into it. I will give Alistair and the team 150%. I cannot wait until Snetterton this weekend."