Despite scoring their best ever result in British Superbikes last time out at Mallory Park, SMT Honda have confirmed they will be forced to skip the upcoming rounds at Brands Hatch after failing to secure the necessary funding.

SMT were on the verge of withdrawing from BSB in the days leading up to Mallory Park before a last minute deal with a new sponsor and rider Michael Rutter gave them the chance to continue for one more round.

Nonetheless, despite Rutter impressing on the way to fourth and sixth in the two races, it has not been enough to lure investment to the team.

Despite the setback, team manager Robin Croft insists he is actively working to try and get SMT back on the grid again at some point this season.

"It is so disappointing for the whole team that we currently won't be racing at Brands Hatch, especially after we showed such potential at Mallory Park with Michael Rutter's fourth place,” he told the BSB website. “We really need someone to come onboard and back the team if we are going to be able to race this weekend.

“We have everything ready to go, the bikes are ready in the truck, the team are ready, but currently we simply just don't have the funds to go racing. If anyone can help then I urge them to get in contact so we can see the team back in the paddock and Michael challenging this weekend.

“I've never experienced such highs and lows as the last two weeks. We won't give up, it means too much."