STOKE Potters have signed a second rider for their 2012 team in 21-year-old Ashley Birks.

Birks is the second rider to join Stoke from last season's National League winners Scuthorpe/Sheffield after the arrival of Richie Worrall earlier this week.

"Everything fell in to place once I had spoken to Stoke promoter) Dave Tattum," said Birks, whose dad, Russell, rode for the Potters in the 1980s.

"I'm pleased I have the chance to race a full season at a track I have always rated.

"When I first came off the moto-cross circuit to start speedway a couple of years ago, I had a few spins at Stoke and learned a lot from Dave, so it will be good to come here and do a full season as a Potter and just give a little bit back."

After two seasons with Scunthorpe in the National League, Birks will start next season with an average of 8.28.

That means Birks could don the number one race jacket vacated by Simon Lambert, his reserve partner at Premier League Sheffield last season.

Birks, who attained a credible 3.81 average in his first season in the Premier League, said "There was so much that was good about last season, and winning the National League with Scunthorpe/Sheffield is right up there.

"I feel confident of having a decent season with Stoke. I'll be at home over the winter getting my bikes ready because I feel I can improve on last season. That's my intention."

Birks will double up again next season, adding Premier League duties with Scunthorpe to his Stoke commitments.

Stoke team manager Malcolm Vasey said: "Ash is looking to top the National League averages in 2012, and when you have that sort of enthusiasm and skill you know we have a great rider joining our club."

James Sarjeant, one of the riders making way for Stoke's new influx of talent, has been snapped by Rye House and will ride for the Raiders in the National League next season.

He said: "I was unsure whether I would get a team place, so getting the call from Rye House is great. I will look forward to our fixture at Stoke next season."

Meanwhile, Sheffield Tigers have signed Stoke asset Klaus Jakobsen on a full contract.

The Dane joined the Potters for the 2007 season, but after a promising debut season left the club in 2010.