The top grass track riders from across the UK will take on Europe’s best at Swingfield near Folkestone, on Sunday.

The Astra Grass Track Club are staging a semi-final of the European Grass Track Championships and the meeting features overseas

riders from France, Germany, The Netherlands, Czech Republic and Denmark.

Leading the home country’s challenge is current champion James Shanes, a former Kent Kings speedway rider.

The field also includes the top three from last year’s British Final held on the same track, Paul Hurry, a former champion, England international speedway rider Eddie Kennett, Swindon speedway star Adam Ellis, and wildcard Zach Watjknecht also from Swindon and Lakeside speedway.

Of the continentals, one to watch for is Gaetan Stella, who won last year’s French speedway championships aged just 17.

Also featured will be the popular 1,000cc sidecars and the field of 18 includes reigning British champions Mark Cossar/Carl Blyth plus several former champions.

Guest of Honour for the event will be terminally ill eight-year-old Hawkinge youngster Draven Jefferies whose mum Jemma Godden has created a ‘bucket list’ to give him as many special memories as possible.

The track is situated off the A260 Canterbury to Folkestone road and is signposted off the A2 and M20 motorway. Food and drinks are available on site and camping is available from Thursday.

Practice on the day will be at 9.30am. There will be a parade of riders at 12.45pm with racing due to start at 1pm.

Admission prices are adults £15, OAPs, and children 12-16 £13 with children under-12 free.