DORSET racer James Shanes is set to take the plunge in the SGB Championship on a full-time basis after signing for Sheffield.

Shanes, who made his top-flight debut with Pirates in the season just gone, was a target for the Tigers during the campaign but a move did not materialise.

However, the Puddletown-based rider played a role in Sheffield's title success with match-winning displays as a guest in two victories at Peterborough.

Having signed for the Owlerton side on a 3.73 average, Shanes told The Star: “It’s a brilliant move for me.

“When I guested for them they looked after me and I thought there and then that I would love to sign for them.

“It’s a fair old journey every Thursday but that doesn’t faze me. Travelling is part of being a professional rider and I can’t think of a better club to come to than Sheffield.”

Tigers co-promoter Damien Bates added: “We welcome James to Sheffield and we are confident he can do a good job.

“He’s got the ability and potential to score some valuable points for the team and he’s an important piece of the jigsaw. He’s also very keen.”

Pirates boss Matt Ford stated in October that he would like to bring Shanes back to Wimborne Road next year.