READING Racers are returning to the speedway track this weekend for the first time in almost nine years.

They will send out a four-man team in a Southern Development League fixture against Plymouth Demons at Eastbourne this Saturday.

It will be the Racers' first taste of competitive action since the club was forced to move out of Reading in 2008 when its lease on Smallmead Stadium expired.

But local speedway enthusiasts have been working tirelessly to keep the Racers' name alive and have succeeded by raising a side for the coming season.

While the Racers' ultimate goal is to find a new home in Reading, they will base themselves at Eastbourne for the foreseeable future.

This weekend's meeting will be a four-man team, six heat contest against the Demons taking place after the main event between Eastbourne and Plymouth in the National League.

Sadly, Racers have already had to dig deep as No.2 Nick Laurence is riding for National League team Lakeside the same night, while Niall Strudwick is also unavailable.

However, their absence means 17-year-old prospect Stephen Whitehouse will get a chance alongside Luke Harris, Kyle Roberts and William O'Keefe.

Reading Chronicle:

Emma Pike from Reading Racers Speedway Action Group said: “While this league is about developing young riders, we’ve been tipped by some to win it.

“We certainly believe we have put together a team capable of winning matches and containing riders who can go on to make a name for themselves in the higher leagues and maybe even gain international stardom one day.”

Racers will compete in a minimum of eight matches this year, and Pike added: “All the boys have shown real enthusiasm and excitement about wearing the Winged Wheel race jacket.

“A good show of supporters this season will also prove there is an appetite for speedway in Reading again.

“Our ultimate goal is to bring a team back to Reading!

Racers were formed in 1968 and won four British league titles.

The club was forced to close in 2008 after the lease on Smallmead Stadium in Reading was sold and funding for a new venue dried up.

Reading Racers are running a mini bus to Eastbourne on Saturday. To book a seat email info@readingracers.co.uk or visit the club's facebook page.