PIRATES' asset Jay Herne hopes to take his next step on the road to stardom, by securing a berth with Premier League Somerset for 2008.

The 23-year-old Aussie was brought to Britain by Poole legend Craig Boyce, who has supplied him with a bike, engine and racing kevlars.

This has proved a wise investment and Herne made an explosive impact with Conference League neighbours Weymouth last term.

Like Antonio Lindback, he announced his arrival in British speedway with an awe-inspiring paid 21-point maximum on his debut against Plymouth on June 16.

While Herne may be a few years from being considered for a Pirates place, he is already keen to link up with the Poole promotion.

And he hopes Wimborne Road and Somerset chief Mike Golding can help him take his next big step.

Herne said: "If I go into the Premier, joining Somerset would be great.

"They are a superb club and they would definitely be a good option."

Herne made regular appearances at Wimborne Road last term as mechanic to his housemate Jason Doyle.

But Boyce was the architect behind the Sydneysider's switch to the Northern Hemisphere.

The Weymouth rider was responsible for looking after the veteran's bikes, while the Aussie team manager tuned engines for the stars.

The question on many people's lips at Poole Stadium is whether Boyce will hang up his kevlars, following his shock departure from the Pirates septet in late September.

And Herne admits losing his Poole team place did not sit well with The Face.

He added: "Boycey is a bit disappointed and down about the situation.

"He has sold a lot of his kit now, including two of his bikes, so perhaps he has made his decision?"