DANIEL Halsey has been named as the 2013 Mildenhall Fen Tigers’ captain.

DANIEL Halsey has been named as the 2013 Mildenhall Fen Tigers’ captain.

The 24-year-old takes over from Lewis Blackbird who has moved to Dudley.

Fans’ favourite Halsey, who played a major part in the club’s Grand Slam success last year, is now also the only rider who has ridden for the club since the current promotion launched the ‘new era’ of speedway at West Row at the start of 2011.

“When we sat down to decide who was going to take over from Lewis as skipper, Danny’s name quickly moved to the top of the list and we all agreed that he was the man to lead the team this season,” said Mildenhall Chairman Kevin Jolly. “He has been a model professional since he joined Mildenhall and we are sure he will prove to be a great captain. We also hope it’ll give him the confidence to add some points on to his own average. When we told him we wanted him to be skipper he accepted straight away and to say he is up for the job would be a big understatement. He can’t wait to get started and we know he’ll be a massive help to the young lads in particular.”

The promotion have also confirmed that an Official Supporters’ Club is being formed again in time for the 2013 season. Jolly explained, “We had a very positive meeting with Paul and Shantel Jenkins who will run things for us. They’ve got some exciting ideas for the Supporters’ Club events and will be putting together a committee to help organise things. It’s great that fans will have the chance to hold their own events again.”

Meanwhile the club have also confirmed the date of this year’s ‘Meet the Riders’ night. It will take place in the Fenman Bar at West Row on Saturday 23rd February. Track staff should arrive at 6.30pm with the evening’s main events for supporters starting at 7.30pm. All the 2013 team are expected to attend along with the Fen Tigers’ promotion and management team. Entry is free.