LEWIS Kerr sees no reason why Oxford Cheetahs can’t challenge for silverware in 2023 after being named in Peter Schroeck’s side to compete in next year’s British Speedway Championship.

The 32-year-old arrives at Oxford Stadium off the back of one of his most successful seasons to date, which saw him lift the Championship Pairs and Premiership League Cup with Redcar Bears and Sheffield Tigers respectively.

Kerr is one of two fresh faces at Oxford, with Australian rider Sam Masters also linking up with the Cheetahs following his move from Edinburgh Monarchs.

Captain Scott Nicholls and Cameron Heeps have been retained, while Henry Atkins, Jordan Jenkins and Luke Killeen have been promoted from development side Oxford Chargers.

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Kerr said his visits to Sandy Lane last season had a big impact on his decision to join the Cheetahs.

He said: “I loved racing at Oxford last year, the track’s shape suited me, and when myself and Charles (Wright) won the Pairs it was a boiling hot day but conditions were great.

“The whole set-up is cool. The pits, the terraces, the facilities inside – everything about Oxford Stadium is professional so to be part of that is great.

“Being able to set the bike up right next to the track is a small but effective way to get everyone up for the night.

“The crowd are on top of us and it’s an enclosed atmosphere which makes it fun for everyone.”

The Norfolk-based rider also looks forward to teaming up with former boss Schroeck, who he worked under at King’s Lynn Stars as recently as last year.

Kerr said: “Peter is very passionate about the sport. We’re good mates too which counts for a lot.

“I raced with Jordan at Redcar last season but otherwise this is a new team for me and I’m looking forward to working with Sam and Scott.

“We’ve got a strong top three and a lot of potential at the lower end too.

“Hopefully we’ve got all the ingredients to have a positive year.

“For now, I’ll be keeping myself fit through the off-season so I’m ready to go come March.”