CRADLEY Heathens have made two new signings in time for their National Trophy decider at Birmingham next month.

British under-21 star Ellis Perks makes a return to the Heathens after racing for them in 2015 when they spent a full season racing at Perry Barr.

Perks, the nephew of former Heathens rider Dave, steps in for injured skipper Adam Roynon in the winner-takes-all battle on Wednesday August 1.

And he’s joined by former Birmingham rider Taylor Hampshire, who steps in for Chris Widman. Both Widman and Roynon are on the injured list.

Heathens co-boss Gary Patchett said: “We are keen to beat Birmingham and make it through to the National Trophy final and we felt we had to make these moved. Hopefully they won’t be just for one meeting.

“We feel so sad for Adam and Chris, two terrific lads, but that’s the way speedway goes and we wish them well for their recovery.

“Ellis was very keen to join us and, in fact, he’s been in touch in the previous two years expressing a desire to come back to Cradley.

“He will also take his place in the Golden Hammer meeting at Monmore on August 13.”