IF GIVING up a full-time job doesn’t show commitment to the cause, then little will.

But that is exactly what new Swindon Robins recruit Ellis Perks has done.

After being confirmed as James Shanes’ replacement by team manager Alun Rossiter on Thursday morning, Perks was quick to end his Monday-Friday lifestyle.

Born in Worcester, the Poole Pirates asset had his head in his hands just 12 months ago. Without a team, the now 22-year-old was jobless in speedway.

“I was sat in Australia wondering why I didn’t have any team to ride for,” said Perks.

“Now I’m racing in all three British leagues, I’m a bit speechless to be honest.”

The phone might have stayed quiet during the long winter of 2017-18, but that couldn’t be further from reality for the British youngster in recent months.

After bagging Championship and National League spots with Leicester Lions and Lion Cubs respectively, the opportunist slider was presented with a chance to mark his mark on British speedway’s top tier.

And he is keen to grab his chance with both hands – bringing in additional mechanics to help with the logistical challenge that racing in all three tiers brings.

He added: “I’ve gained 17 more meetings, but I will have a lot more time to cope with the schedule by giving up my previous job.

“I’ll have to take on more mechanics to help with the workload and washing of the bikes.

“I’ve sacrificed my day job to concentrate on my speedway full-time – that’s how I’m going to make my money.

“Riding for Swindon is a step in the right direction, it’s where I want to be.

“I’ve got to race in the best leagues if I want to be the best I can.”

Perks’ Robins debut will occur on Monday as Rossiter’s re-shuffled septet tackle Poole in a SGB Premiership double-header.

Wimborne Road will host the Wiltshire outfit at midday, before both teams face each other for the second time on the new Abbey Stadium track this season.

Perks said: “I wouldn’t say there is more pressure, but I’m an asset of Poole so it’s always interesting to race against them on their home track.

“I’m very grateful to Swindon for the opportunity. And I have raced plenty at Poole before, so the track isn’t unknown to me.

“It’s a different kettle of fish at Swindon with the new track, but hopefully I can do my job and score a few points at reserve.”