Thomas retires, launches BSS team.

'Mission Racing' will contest the 2008 BSS series with riders Sam Warren and Nick Medd onboard 2008 YZF-R6 Rob McElnea specification Yamahas.

Warren (25) was the 2006 British Supermoto Champion and brings experience from a highly competitive Off-road background, while team-mate Medd (27) is a former BSB rider.

Current British Superstock Cup contender, Tom Clegg, will also ride for the team in the new 2008 Junior Superstock Championship.

"It's an exciting time for everyone involved," said Thomas. "We've been working very hard to get Mission up and running before the 2007 season ended. With our bikes ready to go from a proven source we can begin our testing programme in the next few weeks."

"As an additional commitment to the championship we are pledging 1% of our sponsorship money to the Chris Jones Memorial Fund," announced team principal Nik Ellwood. "I'd like to take this opportunity to invite any other teams to match our pledge for this worth while cause."