NEW Birmingham Speedway signing Steve Johnston has flown back into the UK from his Perth base to step-up preparations for the 2010 season.

And Johnston has revealed how he felt destined to team up with BRC Roofing Brummies management members Graham and Denise Drury - 14 years after they were last together at Long Eaton!

Johnston, one of the sport's most popular characters, said: "I flew back in early because of the sad passing of my close friend Rob Woffinden, who had a brief time riding for Birmingham in his career.

"But it's also an opportunity to take my preparations for the new season up a level and I have to say I think we can have a really great season at Birmingham.

"And it's great to be working with Graham and Denise again. I always felt there would be a chance to ride for them again one day and it was destiny when Birmingham came in for me I guess!"

Johnston will make his Birmingham debut on Wednesday, March 17, when the Perry Barr side face Stoke in the opening night challenge match at home.