CRADLEY Heathens are preparing for the season opener in Birmingham on Wednesday.

The team will be put through their paces at practice sessions before heading to Birmingham for an opening night challenge match against the reigning champions on Wednesday.

The riders will be together at Scunthorpe’s Eddie Wright Raceway on Saturday afternoon.

Boss Will Pottinger said: “It’s a big few days for the lads and everyone is looking forward to it.

“We had a great night at Cradley Heath Liberal Club last Friday when we got together and the lads were amazed by the turnout with a packed crowd to meet the riders.

“We’re grateful to Scunthorpe to accommodate us on Saturday and we’ve asked some of our former riders to come along, Ash Morris will be there but Max Clegg, Paul Starke and Stevie Worrall are otherwise engaged.

“Then we are at Wolverhampton on Monday and that will be the first chance for our supporters to come along and see the lads.

“We’re looking forward to that and, as always, thanks to Chris Van Straaten and Peter Adams at Wolves for having us.

“It will be a good workout for the lads at Birmingham next Wednesday, we’re going there with a positive attitude – but it will also be good for us to get some laps around there before our opening National League meeting with King’s Lynn at Perry Barr the following week.”

He added: “Some of the lads have had individual practice sessions, Danny Ayres was back on a bike for the first time in six months at the weekend, but it will be good to get us all together.”

The club have also confirmed Graham Jones will once again be on board as coach / technical advisor to assist Pottinger on race nights.

Fans can see the team at Monmore on Monday night when they join up with Wolverhampton for their press and practice night.

Heathens are expected on track from 7pm approximately, admission is available from 6.30pm by donation, minimum £1, to charity.