Kelsey Dugard is ready for a “weird” evening racing against the club where he grew up.

But the newly-turned 18-year-old is delighted with how his move away from Eastbourne Eagles is turning out.

Dugard signed for National League newcomers Isle of Wight after being left out of the Eagles line-up for this season. The Islanders visit for Eastbourne’s first home league meeting of the year tonight (7.30pm).

Dugard said: “I’m looking forward to it – but it’s going to be weird.

“Nobody has really said too much about the meeting.

“We have some good individuals at Isle of Wight but we haven’t really gelled as a team yet.

“We won on Thursday so hopefully we are on a winning streak.”

Isle of Wight’s big, fast track offers a massive contrast to Arlington.

Dugard believes that change is doing him good.

He added: “I feel like I’m definitely improving as a rider. I’m going to tracks I went to last year and scoring almost double.

“I like the track there. It’s easier than Arlington and it’s fast. It’s good fun.”

Eagles hope No.1 Adam Ellis is fit after a smash at Wolverhampton on Monday when riding for Poole.

With team manager Glenn Martin away, the hosts will be managed by Kelsey’s brother Connor Dugard.

But their dad Martin will not be there to keep order as he is attending a wedding.

Connor said: “There will be no hard feelings.

“Going away to another track has worked out for Kelsey.”