Dons prepare for Speedway return.

With the 2001 season now at a close, the management of Wimbledon Speedway can now concentrate on the task of building a competitive side for the return of the Dons next May.

Co-promoters Steve Ribbons and David Croucher are looking for an exciting blend of youth and experience to take to the track as the Dons return for the first time in over ten years.

"Hopefully the supporters understand that as the new boys, we cannot just go ahead and sign riders that may currently be under contract to other clubs."

"We have firm ideas on whom we would like to see wearing the famous Dons racejacket next season, and can assure all fans that the riders in question will make a team to be proud of."

Currently, five riders have been formally announced as Dons assets, including the newly appointed captain Chris Hunt who will have a vital role to play to passing on his experience to the younger riders.

Wimbledon Speedway Supporters Club (WSSC) officials Sue Jackson-Scott and Linda Dean have been inundated with requests to join the reformed club.

Since plans were first announced in September, over 75 members have joined up including one extra special individual - Dons legend Ronnie Moore.

Ronnie Moore who graced the Plough Lane circuit for over 20 seasons, and was World Champion in both 1954 and 1959, sent over his completed application form from his home in Christchurch, New Zealand.

WSSC official Sue Jackson-Scott said: "It was a marvellous surprise and a great honour to receive a completed application form from the greatest Dons rider of all time. Ronnie also took the time to send us his best wishes, and we truly appreciate his vote of thanks."

Indeed, the Dons promotional duo are so pleased with the public response that an extra Supporters Club function has been arranged for Thursday 29th November at Wimbledon Stadium starting at 7.30pm. It is planned to show Dons videos and hopefully some riders will be in attendance.