James Shanes showed the form that's earned a Kent Kings contract - but his efforts were in vain.

Teenager Shanes signed his deal ahead of Kings' National League meeting with Birmingham Brummies at Central Park on Monday night.

The reigning Great Britain under-21 grasstrack champion top-scored with 12 points but Kent lost 53-40 to the big-name visitors.

Shanes, 19, said: "I am very happy at Kent and so far I think it has been a good move in my career.

"To be fully contracted to such an ambitious club can only be good for me and for the Kings fans."

Kent boss Chris Hunt said: "James is a rider we admired last season when he visited us.

"I was extremely happy that we were able to bring him into our seven - now to own his contract is the icing on the cake and our fans will be delighted."

Ben Morley (8), Aaron Baseby (7+2), Danny Ayres (7), Jamie Couzins (2), Danno Verge (2) and Adam Sheppard (2) completed Kent's tally against Birmingham.

Kings travel to Rye House in the National Trophy on Saturday (7pm).

They host Stoke in the National League on Monday night (6.30pm).