OXFORD Chargers have unveiled the first five riders that will race in their inaugural National League season.

Jordan Jenkins, Nathan Stoneman, Sam Hagon, Ben Hopwood and Jacob Clouting will represent the club in the third tier of British speedway.

Stoneman captained Oxford Cheetahs on the Isle of Wight last summer, but three-times National League trophy-winner Jordan Jenkins will skipper the side.

“I’m over the moon about the return of Oxford Speedway,” said Jenkins.

“It’s great news for British Speedway after a challenging period and to be part of the resurrection as Chargers’ captain is an amazing opportunity for me.

“I feel racing for Oxford will help me to improve as a rider. I gained a lot of confidence in 2021 and outweighed my expectations.

“My performances made me realise I am capable of beating the big boys and I’m hopeful of another equally successful campaign.”

Jenkins is not the only member of his family thrilled to be racing at Oxford Stadium.

His grandfather Ross used to attend speedway meetings at Sandy Lane while stationed at RAF Upper Heyford during his time in the Royal Air Force.

Jenkins added: “My grandad is really excited to revisit the stadium, he used to attend speedway every week with his mates and can’t wait to be back on the terraces.

“What Jamie (Courtney, promoter) is doing at Oxford is fantastic. He’s totally committed to supporting young British riders and without people like him I don’t think we’d be in the place we are now.”

Chargers will act as a progression pathway for young riders in a league that counts three-times World Champion Tai Woffinden and Speedway of Nations champion Robert Lambert among its alumni.

Like Oxford Cheetahs in the British Championship, they will race on Wednesday nights.

Courtney said: “Helping young riders to reach their full potential is a significant part of our vision at Oxford Stadium.

“There’s no better way for a rider to progress their careers than racing against quality opposition week in, week out.

"It’s why we’ve committed to running two teams as part of Oxford Speedway’s regeneration."