Wimbledon to return again in 2003.

With a month left of the current campaign to run, the directors of Wimbledon Speedway are already making plans for the make-up of the 2003 Dons side.

The famous Dons made an emotional return to British speedway after an eleven year absence, and the news that the sport is set to continue next season is great news for the sporting public of south west London.

In spite of a difficult season that has seen Wimbledon languish at the foot of speedway's third division, the return of speedway to the luxurious confines of Wimbledon Stadium has been a great success.

The July takeover by Wimbledon Speedway plc together with the installation of a ?40,000 purpose built speedway circuit has seen an upsurge in support for the London side, with attendances far exceeding those elsewhere in the Conference League.

Over 25 riders have worn the famous red and yellow race jacket this season as Wimbledon have encountered numerous injury setbacks with long term
injuries sustained to Gary Sweet and Nathan Morton ruling out of a track return until next season.

Captain Chris Hunt had until last Thursday escaped injury but was left shaken and badly bruised after tangling with visiting rider Benji Compton in Heat 8 of the home 42-49 defeat to Newcastle.

Although ruled out for the rest of the night's action, the Wantage based rider bravely rode 24 hours later at Boston to preserve his ever present status.

This week the Dons take on fellow newcomers Carmarthen Dragons in a Conference Trophy fixture. This will be the first visit to Plough Lane for the Welsh side and the Londoners will be keen to put their home track advantage to good use.

All fans are reminded that there are only two Thursday evening meetings left at Plough Lane before the Dons revert to Wednesday night meetings from 2nd October. The change has been brought about due to Wimbledon Stadium landlords, the GRA, taking Thursdays for greyhound racing.