THE wheels are in motion for a new women's sports team set up by a Studley mum.

Since Bee Bentley, 36, also know as Iva Issues, first appealed for adventurous ladies to join her Roller Derby team last October, seven recruits have signed up.

Created in the 50s, Roller Derby combines a hard hitting game with costumes and plenty of attitude. Participants adopt alter egos and the new girls' names include Racey Macy, Magic Minx, Hussell Russell, Violet Attack and Micki Moto.

"We hope to be trained and ready for competition by this summer. Training is intensive, but mostly it's fun and challenging," said Bee.

"Every week these girls get better and better, excelling through the drills and becoming true athletes in their own right. They're determined and they work hard."

Magic Minx, know off the track as Jackie Masters, 36, from Webheath, explained why she joined the team known as the Birmingham Blitz Derby Dames.

"I love contact sports. I used to be a boxer. I was looking for another full contact sport and roller skating is a great way to get fit," she said.

The skaters launching the West Midlands league are urging other women to join them, including junior skaters aged between 10 and 17 who are interested in learning to skate, gaining a qualification and being part of a team. For more details, visit www.blitzdames.com, email info@blitzdames.com or call Bee on 07913 817230.