NEW reserve Steve Worrall is determined to pick up where he left off when he begins his Elite League career with the Robins next season.

The 22-year-old was drafted along with Josh Bates by Swindon boss Alun Rossiter on Tuesday and the duo are set to spend the season at reserve for the Blunsdon side Worrall, whose twin brother Richie will ride for Belle Vue next season, finished 2013 in superb form after full recovering from a broken leg the previous season, and although he admitted historically big tracks like the Abbey Stadium have not been his preference he is hopeful his end of season form will carry over into 2014.

“I was happy to go anywhere to be honest because it’s such a good opportunity, getting a go in the Elite League, and you have to grab it with both hands,” he said.

“I don’t know how anyone can really moan about it to be honest because if you starting thinking bad then you are a bit behind going into the season, compared to if you are thinking positively.

“Big tracks never used to be my favourite tracks, but then I rode at the Isle of Wight in the National League at the end of last season and I loved it, and I think Swindon and the Isle of Wight were pretty much the same. Smallbrook might be a bit rougher but it should be fine.

“I rode in the Elite League for Lakeside against Swindon in 2012 and I didn’t do so good, I don’t think I was ready for it, but I’ve had a lot of time to prepare since and hopefully I am ready to go.

“I didn’t want last season to end and I just wanted to keep on riding, so hopefully I can start the new season in good form too.”

While questions will be asked as to whether the new graduates are ready to mix it with experienced riders in the top tier, Worrall is convinced it will do the likes of he and Bates the world of good.

“Some riders, from my experience, aren’t ready because it is a big step, but you have to remember they are changing the format a little,” he said.

“There are going to be two reserves races rather than one, because in the old format it can be hard going up against a reserve and then the other team’s number one.

“It is a great idea though and I’m sure it will help a lot of riders progress.”