CRADLEY reserve Ellis Perks has thanked Heathens supporters for their backing at a special event on Thursday.

The 18-year-old made his first public, speaking appearance since signing for the club at Cradley Heath Liberal Club after missing out on the 'Meet the Riders' night back in March.

Perks was delighted with how the night went. He said: "It was great to let the fans know more about me and my background and I really enjoyed my night.

"It was good to talk to some of them for the first time properly and good to put a face to some of the names that are always giving me plenty of support and encouragement over the internet.

"It's a pity a few more couldn't make it, but those who were there raised some very important money and I can't thank them enough.

"I'm looking forward to the next few weeks with the Heathens and I'm determined to get my season back on track and chip in with some big points for the team."

Ellis Perks would like to personally thank the following for all of their help and support since returning to the UK for the 2015 season:

Dean Bridge (Motor Market)
Steve Taylor Construction
Dave Pottinger (LP Transport)
Neil Skelding
Liam, Tracey and Robbo,
Marcus Williams
Gordon Pairman
Dave Roscoe,
All the management, riders and fans at Cradley.