AIR FENCE FOR ARMADALE

NEWS Wednesday 10th July 2013, 1:15pm

by Mike Hunter

  Edinburgh Monarchs

Edinburgh are committing themselves to installing an air fence at Armadale for the 2014 season.

This also confirms, at a very early stage that the Scotwaste Monarchs will be in action at Armadale in 2014.

Following a directive from the Speedway Control Board that all tracks in the UK must have an Additional Protective Device fitted to their safety fence the Directors of Edinburgh Speedway have unanimously backed the air fence plan at their meeting last week.

BSPA Chairman and Scotwaste Monarchs co-promoter Alex Harkess is, of course, determined to ensure that all Premier League clubs have air fences next season, so it might not come as a surprise that Edinburgh are making this early pledge.

Harkess said “The cost is likely to be around £14-15,000 and we believe the riders will honour a commitment originally made by Shane Parker to volunteer to ride in meetings, for expenses only, to help Clubs raise, at least, part of the necessary funds.

“The Premier League are the only professional league in Europe not to insist on protective barriers for rider safety and it’s time to put that right.”

His co-promoter John Campbell added “The club was saved last winter by the generosity of the fans so we’re happy to give them the early commitment for next season. The kind donations we received have put the Club in a far stronger position financially than we have enjoyed for many years. We have used this money wisely and still have some in reserve for the “rainy day” that is sure to come along. However, it is not our intention to go back to supporters and ask for further donations.

“Instead we intend to promote a major fund raising meeting, with the help of the riders, before the end of this season and also organise a series of other fund raising events. We will also be looking for corporate sponsors to purchase a fence panel at a cost of £425 giving the company advertising rights to that section of fencing for two seasons.”

It is exciting times at Armadale Speedway at the present time and this initiative is another positive step in securing the long term future of the Club.