A packed crowd in the ‘Fenman’ bar at Mildenhall Stadium waited in anticipation last Saturday evening for the announcement of the riders and managers for this year’s seasonal opener.

The club had worked hard to keep the riders a closely-guarded secret, and the response from supporters left no one in any doubt that this is a strong and exciting field of riders, many of whom have Mildenhall connections.

The opening salvo saw the Team Managers drawn by the team sponsors, a line-up which was like a ‘who’s who’ of Suffolk speedway.

Current ‘KJM/Manchetts’ Fen Tigers and Mildenhall legend, Robert Henry, will be joined by ex- World Champion Mark Loram, Tony ‘Shrimp’ Davey and Nigel Flatman.

Next, the riders were drawn in individual groups to ensure competitive teams and a meeting no one will want to miss!

The teams are as follows:

Assured Services: Stefan Nielsen, Jon Armstrong, Ryan Kinsley & Sam Woods.

TM Nigel Flatman Browns Builders: Josh Bates, Danny Halsey, Chris Widman & Jordan Jenkins.

TM Tony Davey Mighty Manchetts (current holders): Ben Morley, Nathan Stoneman, Danno Verge & Taylor Hampshire.

TM Mark Loram D Palmer & Sons: Danny Ayres, Connor Mountain, Alfie Bowtell & Luke Ruddick.

TM Robert Henry The Fen Fours will open the Mildenhall ‘KJM/Manchetts’ Fen Tigers 2017 season on Sunday, April 9 (parade at 2.45pm, first race at 3pm).

The meeting will be run on a similair format to the World Team Cup, with the exact details to be realised nearer the time.

Speaking after the draw, promoter Kevin Jolly was pleased with the way the draw had worked out. He said: “I made a point of looking for four groups of riders that would ensure that each of our great sponsors would have a good team with a chance of taking the spoils.

“Tonight has been brilliant for us and has just emphasised what a great winter this has been for the club.

“With so many supporters here enjoying the drama, I have to feel confident for the season ahead.

“I can’t wait for April 9, for us to get underway.”