A new season of British Superbike action begins this weekend as Brands Hatch gears up for another action-packed event.

Just a week after the British Touring Cars graced the circuit, it will be the turn of the two-wheel stars to battle for honours over the Bank Holiday weekend.

After competing for the last eight years in the World Superbike Championship, Norikuki Haga is a big name addition to this year’s British event, while home hopes will rest with Sittingbourne’s Shane Byrne.

Last year’s champion Tommy Hill, team-mate of Haga, will be hoping for another title this season on the Swan Yamaha.

There is an international flavour to this year’s championship and not just from Japan’s Haga.

Australia’s 2011 title contender Josh Brookes will be in the frame again this year, while also joining the grid are former World Supersport Championship hopefuls Florian Marino (France) and Luca Scassa (Italy).

Haga, who has twice been runner-up at world level, said: "I like Brands Hatch. I have never raced on the Indy circuit but this won’t be a problem as I know the rest of the track well from World Superbikes.

"I have, in the past, had lots of fans at the track, so I hope that they come and support me again."

Byrne (pictured) led last year’s championship – winning more races than anyone else – until blowing his hopes in the title showdown. He has recovered from a car accident, which left him with a broken foot, as he aims for a third British title.

He said: "We don’t want to be just making up the numbers. I am feeling pumped and ready for the weekend."

Maidstone’s Scott Smart is also back for more as he races for the Moto Rapido Racing team.

Tickets on the gate for the main race day, on Monday, cost £30. Under-13s are admitted free and senior citizens pay £20.