THE Isle of Wight have withdrawn from this year’s National Development League – but the third tier has seven confirmed starters, a number that could rise to eight.
Championship clubs Berwick, Eastbourne and Newcastle have all entered sides and Belle Vue Colts will return to the ranks pending fixture availability at the National Speedway Stadium. A new points limit of 35 has been agreed and the league will operate on a one home, one away basis, with no play-offs. British Speedway Promoters Ltd. chairman Rob Godfrey said: “The purpose of the league is to go back to the traditions of the old Conference League and we want to see new riders coming into the sport. “We’ve often said there is talent out there in motocross and on the grass and it would be good to encourage some to try their hand at speedway. “We realise it’s not ideal for Mildenhall to only have six home meetings but we will do what we can to help them get extra fixtures as and when required. “Isle of Wight declining to enter is a sad moment but we must respect their decision and hope to see the sport return to Smallbrook Stadium in 2022. “We hope to see some fresh faces coming into the sport as part of the pathway up the levels in British Speedway for younger riders and those with limited experience.” Confirmed starters: Armadale, Berwick, Eastbourne, Leicester, Kent, Mildenhall, Newcastle. TBC: Belle Vue Colts.
