Swindon Speedway's intensive recruitment drive has continued with the signing of Cricklade based youngster Charlie Saunders.

The talented seventeen year old becomes a Swindon asset and will compete in academy meetings for the Swindon Sprockets throughout the course of the summer whilst also concentrating on his grass track commitments.

Saunders enjoyed a productive first season on the 500cc Grass track scene in 2007 notching up plenty of victories and podium finishes.

Perhaps most impressive was his third place finish in the British u21 Grass track championships.

On the shale surface Saunders has caught the eye in recent weeks, most notably in the recent academy meeting against Poole when he demonstrated an array of potential.

Saunders will join the Sedgman brothers and Ben Reade in Swindons academy side that is due to race fixtures in the coming weeks.

Swindon manager Alun Rossiter is excited by the acquisition: Here we have a young, talented local rider who the club really believe in.

Its clear for everyone to see that Charlie has made encouraging progress in recent practice sessions and the club are looking forward to monitoring his development.

His grass track results have been outstanding and have clearly provided Charlie with a sound footing in speedway.

2008 will be a season of learning for Charlie in terms of speedway racing and all we just want him to enjoy his racing. I urge supporters to get behind him, it would be great to see such a local rider become part of our future.