Dons sign Conference Riders champion for 2004.

Wimbledon GMB Dons have pulled off a stunning coup with the sensational capture of reigning Conference Riders Champion Barrie Evans for the forthcoming season at Plough Lane.

After months of speculation about the make up of the 2004 line-up, the signing of the highly rated Evans from Rye House is a clear signal that Wimbledon will be assembling a side to strongly challenge for silverware this season.

Evans joins GMB Dons favourite Mark Burrows to form an imposing spearhead and many will mark them down as early favourites for the Conference League Pairs Final to be held at Wimbledon in June.

Team Manager Dingle Brown is set to announce further signings over the coming weeks, with at least three of last year's side in contention for team places.

Wimbledon Chairman Ian Perkin commented "The club has the utmost confidence in Dingle Brown's ability to put together a team for the 2004 season that will barring injuries be capable of challenging for the honours, in will clearly be a very competitive environment."

Wimbledon heat leader Daniel Giffard will be seen in the colours of Premier League Stoke next season after signing for the Staffordshire based team earlier this week.

The Sussex teenager made rapid strides last year before his season was prematurely ended in July in a serious crash, incidentally whilst riding for the Potters.

Giffard intends to double up by riding for the Stoke Conference League team and is sure to receive a warm welcome when Stoke travel south to Plough Lane.