Former Ipswich Witches skipper Leigh Lanham has joined Sheffield Tigers and admits the winter has been a bit of a ‘worrying time’ for him.

Former Ipswich Witches skipper Leigh Lanham has joined Sheffield Tigers and admits the winter has been a bit of a ‘worrying time’ for him.

Lanham was left out of Ipswich Witches promoter Chris Louis’ plans for the Suffolk side in 2014.

It was a tough call, but it left Ipswich-based Lanham with no club and plenty to ponder as the weeks wore on.

But yesterday, Sheffield unveiled him – and former Witch Taylor Poole – in their line-up for the season ahead. And Lanham has been left delighted.

“It has been a bit of a worrying time,” he said.

“I didn’t really want to start the season with no club. I know riders get injured and places become available when the season starts, but that’s not what I wanted.

“It’s nice to feel part of things from the off and I’m looking forward to Sheffield. There will be no pressure on me. I’m not riding at No.1 and I’m not captain, so I can just get on with my riding.”

Lanham will be joined by Poole at Sheffield, the youngster having recovered from a broken leg he suffered last year.

Poole was a popular racer at Foxhall before a serious arm injury at the start of the 2012 season ruined that season for him. Although he came back to ride for Ipswich later in 2012, he endured some tough times.

But he’s back in England this year and Lanham is looking forward to racing with him.

“I haven’t ridden that much with Taylor, but he’s a nice lad who I met a lot when he was at Ipswich. And Josh Bates has joined us too, he’s another good little racer.”

Lanham will be back at Foxhall in the summer in Sheffield colours and he admits he’s looking forward to racing against the Witches and meeting friendly faces.

“The fans at Ipswich have been good to me and many sent me best wishes on my move. I’ll look forward to seeing everyone again later in the year.

“Oh . . . and 10 points would be nice too!”