TALENTED teen Jason Edwards is the latest rider to sign up for Cradley's National Trophy campaign.

The 15-year-old joins fellow young prospect Drew Kemp and big-hitter Adam Roynon as confirmed starters for the Heathens quest for silverware in 2018.

Despite preparing for his first full season in the sport, Edwards has already made one guest appearance for Cradley.

He scored six paid seven in the final home meeting of 2017 against Eastbourne, the club he will ride for in this year's National League, and won his first ever race at Monmore Green.

Edwards also competed in last year's F.A.S.T Golden Hammer, scoring an impressive ten points against strong opposition.

And Heathens co-promoter Gary Patchett says those appearances made him a must have rider for their National Trophy hunt.

"When we offered Jason a guest booking against Eastbourne last season we were that impressed with the way he acquitted himself that we immediately extended an invitation to ride in the Golden Hammer," Patchett told.

"Jason was unfazed by that despite being in the company of the best riders in the National League.

"He’s a very talented young rider and one that, had we been able to take a place in the League this season, we’d like to think would’ve been interested in a team place with the Heathens.

"But we're really looking forward to working with Jason on a slightly longer basis and it will be great to watch his development as the season goes on."

Edwards said: "Cradley are a big club and their fans make you feel really welcome.

"I know winning means a lot to their fans so hopefully I can score some good points for them and the team can have some good results too."