A TRAINING camp attended by Pirates new boy James Shanes was hailed a success by Great Britain youth boss Neil Vatcher.

Some 28 riders from the Young Lions squad spent three days preparing for the upcoming season at the Isle of Wight's Smallbrook headquarters.

Shanes was joined by the likes of British under-21 champion Josh Bates and Glasgow's new recruit Dan Bewley, as well as promising riders from other age groups.

The youngsters were put through their paces on the track by Newcastle's Steve Worrall and former British under-21 champion Paul Hurry, while fitness trainer James Dean oversaw a day of gym testing.

Vatcher said: “Every rider went away having learned and that is all we could have hoped for.

“Last year we did a camp for the first time, which was a great experience, but this year’s camp was an even bigger success on and off the track.

“Everyone who attended worked extremely hard – riders, trainers and the track staff at the venue.

“I would like to thank Steve Worrall and Paul Hurry, who did a great job working with the boys, and the BSPA for their continued support."

Two-point rider Shanes, who lives in Puddletown, will take the plunge in the top flight for the first time this season.