IAN Thomas, one of the most charismatic and successful showmen in Speedway, will be remembered at the last-ever Telford Ice meetings on Sunday, February 26.

Thomas, who had a reputation as one of the sport’s true entertainers, died almost a year ago and the winner of the British Open Ice title will lift the Ian Thomas Memorial Trophy.

It’s a fitting tribute to the man who promoted at the Shropshire rink alongside Graham Drury over 24 years and had spells in charge of Workington, Hull, Belle Vue and Newcastle as well as the England national side.

Said Drury: “One thing Ian emphasised as a promoter was value for money and entertainment. He taught me a lot of things over a number of years.

“His loss was felt by everyone who knew him and we believe naming the trophy after him for the British Open title is a nice touch.

“We have spoken to Ian’s family and there will also be a minute’s applause to remember him before the afternoon meetings in memory of Ian.”

Meanwhile Drury has also confirmed two more riders for the event with Leicester’s Danish star Jan Graversen joined by Argentinian ace Emiliano Sanchez, who is back at Sheffield for the new season.

He said: “Leicester has been a big success and I felt it was important for the event to have a Leicester rider.

“Jan has wanted to be a part of it for some time now and he was delighted when I called him to book him for this one.

“Emiliano is a rider I have worked with at Birmingham and he will enjoy himself at Telford, he’s appeared here before and loved it.

“He’s currently in Argentina enjoying the warm climate. It might be a bit colder when he comes to Telford!”

Telford Ice 2012 will not only be the 25th anniversary of the event but it will be the last as redevelopment of Telford Ice Rink means the bikes cannot be accommodated in future. Ticket sales have been good and remain on general sale.

The event features both afternoon and evening sessions with England Select v Rest of the World at 3pm followed by the British Open at 7.30pm.

Ticket details are as follows: Standing: Adults £15.50, children £5.50. Reserved seating £17.50 adults, £10.50 children. Credit card hotline 0845 155 9966 ext 0.

Postal applications with cheques payable to Telford Ice: 27 Upper Chirk Bank, Chirk, Wrexham LL14 5EB – include a SAE.