LEWIS Kerr says he realised a long-held ambition in signing for Pirates.

The Norfolk-born charger joined the Wimborne Road club at the end of last month, replacing the injured Kyle Newman.

Kerr had previously linked up with Coventry but the Bees had their licence put on ice due to problems over their Brandon home.

And Pirates boss Matt Ford revealed upon signing Kerr that the 27-year-old had shown plenty of eagerness to join the Dorset outfit.

Kerr admitted: "I pestered him a lot, to be honest. We didn't know what was going on with Coventry.

"It's somewhere I've always wanted to ride. It's such a good club. Matt is easy to work with and it has been brilliant so far.

"Even down to some of my family who don't know too much about speedway, you mention Poole Pirates and they know exactly who they are."

Newman fractured his shoulder blade and sustained muscle damage in the season-opening Darcy Ward Invitational at Wimborne Road.

"I wish Kyle all the best," said Kerr.

"When I didn't have a team place, of course I was aware injuries do happen.

"Although it's not nice, it happens and this time it happened quicker than I thought it would."