BRANDS Hatch Grand Prix Circuit is preparing for its biggest weekend of the year as the World Superbike Championship roars into town this weekend.

The Kent circuit will host the British round of the WSBK Championship, and the eighth round of the 2005 series, which produces some of the most thrilling racing seen in motorsport.

This year the event is set to be even bigger than before, with advance ticket sales already up on last year, and a crowd of between 70,000 and 80,000 expected to converge on the circuit.

And it is not surprising to see why – the sight of 33 World Superbike racing machines, each boasting 200bhp, piling into Paddock Hill Bend all jostling for position, is one that will make the hair on the back of your neck stand on end.

It's not just the excellent racing that is on offer.

With a large funfair, live bands, stunt riders and air displays from the Honda Dream Team and Red Devils all on the programme, there will be something for everyone.

If the drama and excitement of previous years is anything to go by, this will be a weekend not to be missed for race fans, especially as Britain’s reigning champion James Toseland lines up to defend his title.

Sheffield-born Toseland is currently fifth in the points after a difficult start to the season, but after winning at Silverstone, he is desperate to do the double by winning both of the series' two UK visits.

The Xerox Ducati rider said: "It’s not over yet, I’m not saying I want to see another rider crash, but we need Troy (Corser) to crash.

"If I’m not winning races I’m not happy. I don’t like coming eighth. I’ve got the bike to win, so I’ll be going for it."

Fellow Briton Chris Walker is also climbing up the order as his PSG-1 Kawasaki Corse team gets to grips with their machine.

The Nottingham man believes this is his best chance yet of claiming his first WSBK championship victory at his favourite venue on the calendar.

He said: "Brands Hatch has a bit of everything, it’s got every type of corner and it’s got the atmosphere too.

"Silverstone is alright, but it’s just another track. Brands Hatch is the one we all want to win."