EDWARD Kennett wants to prove he is the king of indoor racing - and to do that he has to crack Telford next month!

The Great Britain World Cup star has excelled at the Brighton Bonanza in previous years and is desperate to add the British Open ice title to his list of honours.

Now he will line-up at the Shropshire rink on Sunday, February 24, to chase the title in the evening session which follows the England v Rest of the World Select and Speedway Star Best Pairs.

Kennett, who has switched back to Eastbourne for the new season after a spell with Poole, even travelled to Poland before Christmas to ride in an indoor ice event as preparation for his appearance at Telford.

Telford co-promoter Graham Drury said: "Edward's as keen as mustard to come here and win the title, he told me that when we discussed the booking.

"He's proved to be the most consistent rider on the indoor scene in recent seasons and we're delighted to have him here at Telford on February 24.

"He's part of an exciting Eastbourne team for the new season and what better way could there be for him to prepare than by coming to Telford and winning the title."

Another confirmed starter is Telford fans' favourite Tony Atkin. The veteran Chester-based rider will partner Kennett in the Speedway Star Best Pairs event.

"Tony is a specialist on the ice," said Drury. "And Telford wouldn't be Telford without him actually taking part. He is great to deal with, a smashing bloke and I'm sure he'll be gunning for success on the day as well.

"The event is taking shape nicely now and ticket sales are very, very encouraging. They have exceeded expectations so far and the timing of it means we are very close, just days away, from the start of what should be an exciting domestic season."

Kennett and Atkin join other confirmed starters, Josef 'Pepe' Franc, new King's Lynn signing Shaun Tacey, Birmingham duo Phil Morris and Jack Hargreaves and Soke newboy Emiliano Sanchez.

Tickets are available, for both afternoon and evening sessions, from the credit card hotline 08451559966 or by post with cheques payable to World Indoor Ice, Speedway Office, 27 Upper Chirk Bank, Chirk, Wrexham
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