AT the end of the season Verwood-based Worx Crescent Suzuki signalled their intention to return to the British Superbike Championship (BSB) with a two-man team in 2010.

Now with the signing of Tommy Hill that intention becomes reality.

Hill, pictured, has experience with the team, having substituted for an injured Sylvain Guintoli at the mid point of this season.

After challenging for the podium at Mallory Park and then putting in two top-five performances at Brands Hatch he’d left the team in no doubt as to his abilities.

Unfortunately with Guintoli’s return to fitness there was no space in the team for Hill to see out the year. Now with the change to the team’s strategy for 2010, Hill joins Yukio Kagayama in what is set to become one of BSB’s most dynamic and talented of teams.

Team manager Jack Valentine, said: “It was always my aim to have a younger rider in the team so we’re very pleased that we’ve managed to sign Tommy.

“He did a very good job for us when he stood in for Sylvain earlier this year and I’m in no doubt Tommy fits the bill perfectly. He certainly showed what he was capable of in the few outings he got this year and so we’re looking forward to working with him in 2010 – I’m sure he’s going to be running at the sharp end every week.”

A delighted Hill commented: “I’ve worked with the team this year, and so for me going into winter testing with a team that I’ve already worked with is fantastic.

“The Suzuki GSX-R1000 is a cracking bike, to have that and a team that I want to work with is so important – that’s always good for a rider’s confidence.”

He added: “Sure, we will be testing in the new year, and there will probably be the odd shakedown before Christmas, but I just really want to get riding right now!”