CRADLEY racer Tom Perry has been back on a bike for the first time since last season – and it was like he’d never been away.

Perry, who makes a return to the Heathens after two successful seasons on loan at Birmingham, romped to five wins in Scunthorpe’s open meeting on Sunday.

And he says he’s raring to go for the new season with the Heathens looking to dethrone the Brummies in the bid for title glory.

He added: “I'm just really excited to get racing again now. I was back on a bike at Scunthorpe last weekend for the first time since October.

"It was only an amateur meeting but I won all five races and felt like I hadn't been off the bike at all to be honest.

"We've got some big meetings early in the season and it's important to get a good start. Hopefully we can win our first few and just get on the front foot early on."

The Heathens will launch their season with a special event with supporters at Cradley Heath Liberal Club on Friday, March 10.

All the riders will be present and they will be handed their 2017 race jacket by Dean and Adam Bridge from loyal club sponsors Motor Market.

They will then travel to Perry’s former club, Birmingham for a challenge match on Wednesday, March 22 before hosting King’s Lynn at Perry Barr a week later.

Their return to Monmore Green will come against Mildenhall on Easter Monday (April 17, 7.30) – and Perry can’t wait to get started.

Perry is also relishing a battle for top spot in the Heathens team with high profile signing Danny Ayres level on his riding average going into the campaign.

He said: “It's good to have two experienced riders at the top of the team, but it doesn't really matter too much who is at No.1.

"The main thing is we are both doing our job for the team, and if we're both riding like No.1s then that will only help us.

"I get on well with Danny. We've known each other for a few years now and I'm looking forward to riding with him this season.

"If there is any rivalry it will only be friendly and it might end up spurring us on in a way I guess.

"Hopefully we can develop a good partnership in heats 13 and 15 and just both have a good season."