NOTTINGHAM'S Chris Walker has been taking two steps forward and one step back this season – but the veteran believes that will end during ViSK British Superbike round six at Knockhill.

The 37-year-old racer has picked up only ten Championship points since climbing the podium in third place at his local Donington Park three meetings ago in May.

Walker was full of confidence after qualifying on the second row of the grid last time out at Snetterton, but was again inconsistent, finishing sixth and 19th in race one and two respectively.

A routine error cost the Rob Mac Racing rider in the second race at Snetterton and with two weeks preparation under his belt ahead of Knockhill, Walker says he won't be making the same mistake twice.

"Snetterton was a big step forward – it was just disappointing that a bad mistake cost me," said Walker.

"I got a bit too close to Josh Brookes and he braked earlier than I anticipated.

"I was faced with an option of going into the back of him or going out on the grass so I took the latter option. It is a shame because on the whole, it was all really positive.

"I qualified on the second row of the grid and was keeping pace with the top guys so overall it was big step forward. We have made some alterations to the engine and now the bike is more ready.

"You saw some of the results of that at Donington Park where we got a third and hopefully you will see it again at Knockhill."

Walker's recent woes have seen him slump to tenth in the standings – a massive 158 points behind Championship leader Leon Camier.

But the Nottingham flyer admits he expects that to change as he gets ready to travel to Scotland.

"We don't have the budget other teams possess but we are capable of getting on the podium – we have closed the gap but I am also aware of the work still left to be done," added Walker.

"Knockhill will always have a place in my heart because it was a favourite track of mine in the 'Stalker' heyday.

"You only go up there once a year and you are always guaranteed a warm welcome."

British Eurosport 2 has live coverage from every round of the 2009 British Superbike Championship. See the action on Sky channel 411 or Virgin Media channel 525. Next race Knockhill on Sunday, July 5, and for updates head to uk.eurosport.yahoo.com