ELLIS Perks has thanked the Cradley fans for the welcome they have given him to British Speedway.

Perks, whose great uncle Dave was a Dudley Wood legend, has piled up the points in Heathens colours since moving back to the UK from Australia.

Now the 18-year-old is looking forward to meeting up with supporters on a special evening for him at Cradley Heath Liberal Club on Thursday, May 21.

He missed out on Cradley’s 'meet the riders' night in March and is looking to meet up with fans at the club.

“I’m looking forward to meeting everyone and I’m sure it will be a great night at the Liberal Club,” said Perks.

“I’m really pleased with how things are going at Cradley, because of my family links there I have some good sponsors and the fans have been brilliant to me.

“I hope lots of people can come down and enjoy the night with me, I’ll be answering questions on the night and signing autographs. My merchandise will also be available.”

The evening will be hosted by Cradley’s very own Sky Sports broadcaster Nigel Pearson who will be asking the questions – and there will also be a fans Q&A.

Admission is £3 on the door and there will also be a raffle and auction of exclusive memorabilia.

Heathens were set to take on Eastbourne at Perry Barr tonight before going to Kent on Monday for their opening away meeting of the National League season.

They’ll be at full strength for the trip to Sittingbourne and Perks can’t wait.

He said: “Away points will be important, of course. This will be a big test but I can assure you all the guys will be up for the challenge of going there.

“I need to score as many points as I can when I’m at reserve because I know it will be a bit tougher in the main body of the team, but I have to remain confident then.

“We’re good as a team and hopefully we can stick together and come through at Kent and get four league points, that has to be the aim.”

Heathens then have a gap before their next home action at Perry Barr when they face Mildenhall on Wednesday, May 13.

Club director Nigel Pearson is meeting Dudley Council officials next week at the Council House in a bid to step up ‘one more push’ for a new site to bring the club back to the area.

Pearson has revealed he has the full backing of council leader Councillor Peter Lowe, who is a former Dudley Wood regular.