THOUSANDS of fans will flock to Oulton Park this weekend for the sixth round of the MCE Insurance British Superbike Championship.

Defending champion Tommy Hill currently leads the standings but his main rivals, including Shane ‘Shakey’ Byrne and Michael Laverty, will not be giving an inch as they attempt to wrestle the advantage from the Swan Yamaha star.

There is also a pack of contenders including former World Superbike runner-up Noriyuki Haga and Tommy Bridewell aiming to become the eighth different race winner of an enthralling 2012 campaign.

Byrne, who is determined to close in on the standings lead, said: “I am looking forward to Oulton Park and we have been working hard ready for the weekend so it will be down to me and lady luck to get the results.”

The spectacular Oulton Park circuit is one of the most challenging on the calendar and a real favourite for spectators, thanks to the superb views all around the venue’s elevated banks.

It is also regarded as a real rider’s circuit due to its sweeping fast corners and ever-changing gradients.

In addition to the three MCE BSB races (first on Saturday, two on Sunday) there will also be racing from the Motorpoint British Supersport Championship, the Metzeler National Superstock 1000 and 600 Championships, the Monster Energy Motostar Championship and the one make Ducati 848 Challenge. Fans can meet the riders during a free-of-charge pit walk on Sunday’s raceday and big screens around the circuit mean you will not miss any of the action.

Local racers in action during the course of the weekend include Chester-born Jenny Tinmouth, Frodsham’s Howie Mainwaring and Backford’s Joe Francis.

Advance adult tickets for main raceday cost from £25 online with children aged 12 and under admitted free. All event parking is free. For further information and to book visit www.oultonpark.co.uk or call 0843 453 9000.