Tony Atkin, who enjoyed success at last weekend's Telford ice meeting - partnering Edward Kennett to the best pairs crown - will be racing again this summer with Newport Wasps.

And the veteran rider is absolutely delighted to be at the Hayley Stadium although he did receive other offers.

Atkin, aged 40 and a former British grass-track champion, said: "I'm pleased to be returning. I did have interest from two other clubs but I would rather stay at Newport until I finish my career. You never know, though, because it is all about averages.

"I have been around long enough to know that if Tim Newport promoter Stone couldn't fit me in then I would move on and there would be no hard feelings on either side.

"I feel really enthusiastic about the new season and at the moment I can see myself riding the following season, whether it be at Newport or not.

"I want to try and help get us from the bottom of the league and help ring the crowds back. I am hoping that my experience can help improve things."

Atkin has already tried two new engines - tuned by Sean Wilson the England and Great Britain international - and he added: "I have tried them in practice and felt OK. I'm quite happy with the way things are going and the set-up on the bike seems quite good."

Stone said: "Tony had some disappointment with his average last season and he will be keen to set the record straight.

"But, along with Phil Morris, they are to be congratulated on their achievements at Telford just before the start of a new speedway season and it will be of very little surprise that Tony is back. At practice, using the new engines, he looked very good, quick and very comfortable using them (the engines) for the first time.

"He has been and will continue to be an important part of our middle order and adds to highly motivated team members, along with Phil and Chris (Schramm)."