IPSWICH Witches new-boy Olly Allen is hoping to put a heart-breaking few seasons behind him, when he lines up for the Foxhall side in 2010.The 27-year-old, Norwich-based racer, has had to cope with the tragic loss of his mother and uncle, both through cancer, as well as a catalogue of injuries - including a broken leg - all in the last three years.

Mike Bacon

IPSWICH Witches new-boy Olly Allen is hoping to put a heart-breaking few seasons behind him, when he lines up for the Foxhall side in 2010.

The 27-year-old, Norwich-based racer, has had to cope with the tragic loss of his mother and uncle, both through cancer, as well as a catalogue of injuries - including a broken leg - all in the last three years.

Now he is hoping a fresh start, with his move to Foxhall, will kick-start his career and all to the benefit of the Witches side.

“I just need a clear run,” Allen admitted.

“The last two or three seasons have seen huge personal upsets in my life, with the deaths of my mother and uncle, as well as bad injuries.

“I think both Coventry and myself thought it was time for change. I haven't left Coventry on a bad note.

“But it's about Ipswich now, and I'm really excited about joining them, really excited. Ipswich were my number one choice when I knew I would be leaving Brandon.”

Allen, who celebrated a testimonial at Coventry last year, is a Bees asset and has spent the last four seasons with the Bees. Before that he spent one season at King's Lynn, the rest at Swindon.

And there is little doubt his move to Ipswich has rejuvenated his spirits.

“I can't even start to tell you how happy I am getting a spot at Ipswich,” Allen said.

“The last few years at Foxhall, I have ridden really well. I've known Chris Louis and Scott Nicholls for many years and I think my average (6.3) is way low on what I am capable of. I was averaged eight points a meeting before my injuries.”

The new track shape is also something Allen is looking forward to.

“I liked the old shape, but quite honestly it's not the shape I like so much, but the way the track is prepared. It's superb.”

As for the Witches chances and his personal goals in 2010?

“I really like the look of our team,” Allen added.

“I think we look really good and I can see at least four riders in our team who are capable of upping their averages. The play-offs are a minimum target for us.

“On a personal note, I want to get back into the Britain World Cup squad. I've been in it before, so I want to be riding well enough to get back in it again.”

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