Eastbourne have secured the top scorer in this year’s National League in the draft for reserve riders.

Lewis Blackbird averaged 10.89 including bonus points as he helped Dudley Heathens dominate the National League and will ride at reserve for Eagles next term as part of an initiative to fast-track young British riders into the Elite League.

He will be joined by Daniel Halsey, who helped Mildenhall to the title in 2012 and last year averaged 7.94 for the same club in the National League.

Eagles boss Trevor Geer said: “The draft meeting was a big success and it has turned out well for Eastbourne.

“We are delighted to welcome Lewis and Daniel to our team.

“They are very committed riders and I am sure they will do well.

“I have talked to both riders and they are over the moon to be coming to Eastbourne.

“We will see what facilities we can offer them at Arlington for practise prior to the start of the season.”