Isle of Man TT: Steve Mercer signs for Millsport Racing

Mercer recorded his quickest TT lap of 124.658mph in the 2010 Superbike Race

Kent rider Steve Mercer has signed for the Millsport Racing Ducati team for the 2012 Isle of Man TT races.

Mercer, who made his TT debut in 2009, will ride the team's Ducati 1199 Panigale machines in the Superbike, Superstock and Senior races.

"I think it will be a serious machine on both roads and Circuits. 2012 can't come soon enough," he said.

The 29-year-old's best TT result came in the 2011 Superbike race when he finished 12th.

Mercer will contest all the International Road Racer will Millsport in 2012

He also finished 16th in the Superstock race the same year, averaging over 120mph for both races.

The team plan to start their testing programme in early March.

They will compete at the early rounds of the British Superstock Championship in preparation for the start of the International Road Race season at the North West 200.

Team boss Patrick Murray said: "Millsport Racing Ducati are delighted to have Steve on board for the 2012 season.

"Now we are looking forward to getting on the track as early as possible in the new year to begin a testing programme."

The team will also contest the Ulster GP and the Southern 100 in Castletown.