West Cumbrian speedway talent Kyle Bickley will get the next step in his speedway education before joining Workington Comets next year.

Bickley was announced as a surprise signing for the 2018 SGB Championship season by Comets at their Meet the Riders event on Friday night, with a deal in principle agreed for the Workington teenager and double youth world champion to ride at reserve.

The youngster will make his National League debut this year and Comets manager Tony Jackson believes riding against different, experienced riders can only make him even better.

He said: "Kyle is an outstanding prospect and he's going to learn a lot in the National League this year.

"That'll really bring him on for next year, although I think he's ready now to be honest.

"He'll be up against different riders, big lads which will bring on his craft.

"It's really exciting but there'll be no pressure on him, it's a long career and you're learning right to the end."

Comets have three Cumbrians in this season's team and, with another one lined up for next season in Bickley, Jackson feels that can only benefit the club long term.

"You've got people who are local and feel an affinity for the club and it's a local promotion as well," he said.

"That's what the fans want to see."

Comets co-promoter Steve Whitehead added: "The most important thing is that when Kyle is old enough to compete in the SGB Championship, which will be in 12 months time, that he can ride where he feels will be best for him at that stage in his career and he made clear to his family and to us that place was his local track at Workington.

"He will be able to ride in front of his very supportive family and his friends which makes it a good fit for all concerned at that stage in his career and we are very much looking forward to helping him."