CRADLEY will have the support of great names from the past when they host Mildenhall in tonight’s National Trophy Final 1st Leg at Wolverhampton.

Several guests have been invited to the showpiece event and the club have received confirmation that Harry Bastable, who made almost 300 appearances for the Dudley Wood side in the 50s and 60s, will be in attendance.

And former rider and club promoter Colin Pratt, the club president, will be making a rare appearance to support the team against a powerhouse Mildenhall side.

Heathens co-boss Nigel Pearson said: “It’s great to welcome Harry and Colin tonight, two of the most famous names from the past at Dudley Wood.

“Colin remains extremely active in the sport with Swindon and confirmed yesterday he would be in attendance and Harry, now 90, is one of the legendary names of Midlands Speedway and is still very fondly remembered by the older generation of our supporters.

“We look forward to welcoming our guests and hopefully we will see a bumper crowd to get behind the youngsters of today still carrying the famous Heathens name.”

But bosses at Heathens are refusing to be drawn into a war of words with their bitter rivals ahead of the clash, which takes place from 7.30pm at Monmore Green.

Fen Tigers chiefs are angry about the compilation of the Heathens side with talented youngster Jack Smith coming in as a guest rider.

And Mildenhall co-boss Kevin Jolly has labelled the Black Country side ‘Wolves reserves’ and ‘National League Select’.

But Heathens co-promoter Gary Patchett said: “Mildenhall are a fantastic side and we fully respect them for that.

“We are aware of Kevin's comments, all we will add is that we were unanimously voted into the Trophy as clubs were keen to keep us when it was clear we couldn't do a full season.

“Cradley remain big business for other clubs but the tide has clearly turned and clubs feel different.

"It's going to be a very tough final, we know that. I'm hoping to see two brilliant competitive meetings between two great sides and hope the fans enjoy themselves.

“This is our last action of the season and with plans up in their air for next year who knows what significance this meeting has?

“We've won the lot in our time at the club - apart from the National Trophy. We couldn't be facing tougher opponents.

“We look forward to welcoming Kevin, James Easter, Phil Kirk and the Mildenhall riders and fans to Monmore Green.”

Normal admission prices apply for the meeting and a special 36-page programme will be on sale for £3.

Mildenhall are without former Heathens favourite Danny Ayres with an arm injury - but ex Heathens number one Max Clegg comes in as a replacement.

CRADLEY: Alfie Bowtell, Jason Edwards, Kyle Bickley, Jack Smith, Ellis Perks, Richard Andrews, Taylor Hampshire.

MILDENHALL: Max Clegg, Josh Bailey R/R, Ryan Kinsley, Jordan Jenkins, Drew Kemp, Matt Marson, Sam Bebee.