Race ace Ben Wilson is back for more at the North West 200

Ben Wilson returns to the Vauxhall International North West 200 this week with a new bike, a new team and a former North West winner as his crew chief.

The 34-year-old Kirton rider made his debut at the event last year – and he can’t wait to get back again on an EHA backed Aprilia RSV4 that will be prepared by Ian Newton, who won two 250cc races at the event in 1994 and 1995.

Wilson’s EHA Racing squad is run by English-based Eglinton couple Edward and Gail Allingham, in partnership with Newton, and the team owners are delighted to be returning to their home road race with Wilson this season.

He will race the Italian machine in the Superstock event at Portrush (NI).

Wilson said: “I’m looking forward to riding the Aprilia that I ride week in week out in the BSB Superstock class.”

Gail Allingham added: “We are really excited to compete at the North West with Ben.

“As we compete in the British championship we don’t do many races in Ireland – so it is really nice to get this opportunity to bring our team home.”

Wilson will also be reunited with the British Supersport bike that he rode for Gearlink Kawasaki, as the team is to run both him and his ex-team mate Alistair Seeley in the Supersport races at the North West 200 races.

Last year Wilson recorded an 11th and ninth place in the two races and will be looking to improve further this time.

Practice got under way today (Tuesday), but also takes place on Thursday from 9.15am-3pm. The racing begins this evening (Thursday, 5pm-9pm) ahead of the main races on Saturday (9.30am-7pm).

Live streaming is available via the BBC Northern Ireland Sports website.