Linlithgow Lightning have confirmed that they will continue in action in 2000 thanks to the generosity of Glasgow promoter Brian Sands.
Linlitgow promoter John Campbell said:
"We have been searching for a new site since the end of last season when our landlords reclaimed their land at Heathersfield. Talks are still ongoing about a new site but have not come to fruition in time to meet the BSPA deadline of earlier this week. I turned to Brian Sands for assistance knowing that the planning conditions at Ashfield allow for more than one meeting per week, and he was more than pleased to accommodate us. We now have BSPA approval for the move so it is all systems go for Conference League racing in the West of Scotland."
Glasgow already has a junior team known as Ashfield Giants that has raced in challenge matches from time to time over the past year. The name of the new team for the 2000 season will be Lightning Ashfield Giants. All the riders from last year's Linlithgow team are available for selection including Glasgow's own riders Scott Courtney, Robert McNeil and Gary Flint. David McAllan of Edinburgh is expected to turn out along with Ryan Milburn. Allied Tigers' Aidan Collins has also shown an interest in racing when his Premier League commitments allow. One further newcomer will be Edinburgh's Christian Henry.
Most of the meetings will be staged on a Monday evening with a 7.30pm start although the first meeting will be on Sunday 21 May at 6.30pm when Mildenhall Fen Tigers will provide the opposition. Sunday evenings may be used whenever Glasgow Tigers have no meeting. The first match for the team will be away to Sheffield this coming Sunday, May 14th.
Glasgow promoter Brian Sands added:
"I have been keen to see the young riders in Scotland get the opportunity to perform and the short term problems that Linlithgow have at the moment means that these lads will now get on to one of the best race strips in the country. However, John Campbell wants to be able to keep this level of Speedway vibrant in Scotland and we are more than happy to accommodate them here at Ashfield, are we are delighted that they are bringing back the name of the Ashfield Giants."
Hopefully this arrangement will hold for this year and Lightning will be back in the east next year alongside a team from Ashfield.