English only please!

PETERBOROUGH Panthers have adopted an English Language only policy with their riders before, during and after race meetings. Panthers are currently tracking six Danish riders and one Polish rider in Karol Zabik.

Panthers Promoter, Mick Bratley said: "Our team is gelling together nicely, but we have a problem in that with so many riders from the same country, they tend to talk in their native tongue. This we feel is unfair on not only Karol, but the rest of the management team, therefore we have adopted an 'English only' policy. We are deadly serious and if we have to impose a series of fines to grab the rider's attention, then that's what we'll do".

Reflecting on the team, Bratley has special words of praise for the two reserves in the side, Claus Vissing and Kenneth Hansen and also for second string, Karol Zabik. Bratley said: "I think I have run out of superlatives when talking about Kenneth Hansen. He has greatly exceeded our expectations and has become an excellent team player, with a good work ethic.

Claus is beginning to show what we knew he could do, and I am sure he would be further advanced if it were not be for the collarbone injury he sustained against Lakeside. Both guys listen intently to advice given to them and act accordingly, it's really quite refreshing. Karol has had a troubled start with the side this season following family problems.

He is highly thought of by the Peterborough management, indeed Rick Frost, I think, would like to adopt him! He recovered quicker than we thought he would from his injury at Coventry and I think that shows a great determination by him to be a part of this team. Karol is looked after very well in this country, he lodges with a very good family and they also, I think, would like to adopt him! He is integral to our team; he is the jewel in our crown! We should however remain cautious as these guys are going to have bad meetings and the rest of the team, management and supporters need to support them through those times".

On Panthers title ambitions, Bratley is quick to play them down saying: "It doesn't matter what team anybody tracks, at the end of the day the key ingredient is luck, when thoughts turn to the title.

You need to steer clear of injuries; you need to face other sides away from home when they are not at their best. The only ambition I have this season is to get through it without having to lose a meeting to the weather.

We need that to keep some consistency with our race days.

There is nothing we can do about the weather, but I'm determined we get through the season for what would be the first time in a decade without a postponement. We have a Club Chaplain and I fully intend to use him whenever there is rain about!"