HORSPATH Hammers got their league campaign off to a flying start after beating Exeter Aces 134-111.

In a new South and South West region format which sees a team comprised of six top riders and then a combination of four under 16 female or over 40 competitors, the hosts got off to a superb opening.

They took the chequered flag in eight consecutive races with Jack Ellis, new signing Eryk Misior, Jake Neighbour and the returning George Horsley, making a comeback after over two years out of the sport, among the winners.

Their performances meant Horspath went into the interval 57-43 ahead.

Although the visitors remained competitive, victories from Will Jeffery and Zac Payne strengthened their advantage and the result was never in doubt.

With encouraging displays from 16-year-old Owen Johnson, debutant Nathan Loveridge and Alice Neighbour, Horspath are hopeful of a successful campaign.

They are in action again tomorrow with an away match at Newport.