Ipswich Witches teenage star Adam Ellis has backed the idea for young British riders to be given the opportunity to ride in the Elite League in 2014.

Ipswich Witches teenage star Adam Ellis has backed the idea for young British riders to be given the opportunity to ride in the Elite League in 2014.

A draft system took place recently where 23 of Britain’s up-and-coming riders were allocated an Elite League club for next season – each EL club getting two riders at reserve.

Ellis was allocated to Lakeside Hammers – not surprising as they own his contract.

While Mildenhall riders, Joe Jacobs, Josh Bates and Daniel Halsey will all get Elite League experience with Wolverhampton, Swindon and Eastbourne respectively.

But the idea has been criticised in some quarters as just a money-saving scheme with the youngsters not likely to command fees as much as foreign riders.

“I think the whole idea is a good one,” said Ellis.

“People complain there are too many Poles, Swedes and Danes riding in the Elite League in the reserve positions, well not so many next season.

“It’s a move in the right direction as far as I can see.

“I think the British Speedway Promoters’ Association should get some credit for coming up with the idea.

“It’s not going to change things overnight, but in the long term I think this will prove to be a good move.”

Currently working back home in France for his mum’s building company, Ellis is looking forward to next season – one he really wants to make a mark in.

“Last year was my first full year in England and I didn’t really know what to expect,” he said.

“But I know much more now and I’m going to be really well prepared. I already have bikes and engines ready to go.

“Ipswich look an exciting young team and I’m glad Ritchie Hawkins is captain because he’s a guy who is always buzzing round in the pits and is always available to speak to.

“I saw what Cam (Cameron Heeps) achieved last year and I want to do the same.

“There is a friendly bit of rivalry between us and I want to do what he did last season,” (Heeps upped his average by three points).

Ellis has certainly proved he has the speed with some of his wins in the reserve races at Foxhall Stadium just seconds outside the track record!

However, it has been consistency he has lacked, although it must be remembered he is only still 17!