SIMBAD references

We present the first results of an ongoing spectroscopic follow-up programme of blue-Hα-excess sources within the Kepler field of view in order to identify new cataclysmic variables. Kepler observations of the identified targets in this work will then provide detailed, time-resolved, studies of accretion. Candidates selected from the Kepler-Isaac Newton Telescope Survey were observed with the 4.2-m William Herschel Telescope. Out of 38 observed candidates, we found 11 new cataclysmic variables reported here for the first time, as well as 13 new quasars. Our target selection has a success rate of 29 percent when searching for cataclysmic variables, and we show how this can be improved by including photometry obtained with the Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer.