KENDAL-born MCE British Superbike Championship rider James Ellison will be lining up on the grid for a different team for the 2017 campaign following his move to McAMS Yamaha.

After finishing third in the 2016 season for JG Speedfit Kawasaki, Ellison is reunited with Yamaha, a manufacturer where he has previously celebrated plenty of success, including finishing second in the 2009 title chase and most recently fourth in 2013.

Ellison will join forces at McAMS Yamaha with Michael Laverty, who just missed out on this year's Showdown places.

McAMS, a 24/7 Motorcycle Accident Management Service, have featured in the paddock since 2014. McAMS spent their first 2 years in Kirkby Lonsdale and have increased in size 10 fold over the last eight years.

For the forthcoming season they have increased their presence by announcing a new partnership with Team Traction Control (TTC) as they make their debut in the premier class after several successful years in the Supersport class.

Ellison said: “This is a new challenge for me. I have raced with Kawasaki for three years and now to return to Yamaha is something I am really excited about. I feel that the Yamaha suits my style and we finished second together in the 2009 season so we have good memories to build on.

"We all know how strong the series is so I had to go for what I thought was a championship-winning package and I strongly believe that the TTC Team with the might of Yamaha behind them is exactly what I need to deliver the title.

“It is perfect that McAMS have increased their presence in the championship and are spreading awareness of just how beneficial it is to the average road user and dealers alike. They have personally supported me for three years and we are looking forward to celebrating more success together in 2017.”