PUDDLETOWN racer James Shanes is confident doubling up will help his form for Pirates.

The fans' favourite impressed in his rookie season in the top flight last year, putting nearly a point on his average.

And Shanes, who this week took part in a Young Lions camp on the Isle of Wight, hopes joining Sheffield for 2018 will give him the track time he needs to kick on.

He told the Daily Echo: "It's going to really help. Track time was what I lacked last year.

"I was riding against top riders who have years of experience and in the grand scheme of things, I am a relative newcomer to speedway. I've only been doing it for four years.

"I'm playing catch-up and trying to learn at 100mph when I should be learning at 50mph.

"The move to Sheffield can only be good. It's going to keep me busy."

Shanes would like to thank his sponsors Meridian Lifts, Wessex Marine, Hedgehog Racing, Dynomite Motorcycles, Bournemouth Bedding Centre, Jurassic Jaunts, Floodmate Ltd, Specsavers Poole, Helmet City Dorset, Poole Tyre & MOT Centre, Mito-UK/Progrip and Shorne Speed.