SWINDON Speedway have been boosted by a consortium of local businessmen joining the club and the formation of a board of directors to assist with its running and promotion.

Mike Bowden will be appointed as the club’s CEO, Per-Axel Warensjo will become financial director with current owner Terry Russell becoming the club’s chairman while remaining the major shareholder in Swindon Speedway.

Terry Russell believes the developments are a big step forward.

He said: “It is something that I have wanted to see happen for some time now.

“Local business people at the head of the club to help promote in and around Swindon is fantastic news and can only move the club forward.

“It allows Alun Rossiter and Colin Pratt to focus on team matters and BSPA matters while the business side of the club is being well looked after.

“I’m looking forward to working with Mike and the consortium and I’m excited by the set-up that can push the club forward as we move into a new era.”

Bowden said: “I have been an avid speedway fan since the age of 15, my first meeting coincidentally being at Rye House on the day Colin Pratt made his debut as a team manager.

“I look forward to working with Terry and his team and doing all I can to ensure the Swindon Robins continue to be a strong, successful and ever popular feature of our town.”

Swindon bid for their third consecutive win tonight when they welcome Lakeside Hammers to the Abbey (7.30).

Swindon are unchanged following their excellent win at Coventry on Monday night.

SWINDON: Jason Doyle, Charles Wright, Josh Grajczonek, Justin Sedgmen, Nick Morris, Rohan Tungate, Stefan Nielsen.