MARK Loram today had a message for concerned Ipswich Evening Star Witches speedway fans: “I still have my sights set on riding next season.”The 36-year-old's recovery from a broken thigh has not gone to plan - and he underwent a minor operation last week to remove a screw from around his knee area.

By Elvin King

MARK Loram today had a message for concerned Ipswich Evening Star Witches speedway fans: “I still have my sights set on riding next season.”

The 36-year-old's recovery from a broken thigh has not gone to plan - and he underwent a minor operation last week to remove a screw from around his knee area.

Loram, world champion in 2000 and a big favourite with Witches fans, has another hospital appointment on Thursday.

“I shall know more then,” said Loram, who was due to work for Sky Sports last night at the Ipswich meeting with Poole Pirates which was postponed.

“It was stage one of plan B and hopefully my thigh bone will start to grow together now.

“Currently there is still a gap and my leg is held together by pins and screws.”

Medical advice will be that the bone should heal completely before Loram takes to the track again.

Loram is not contemplating retirement after having this season cut short when he crashed at Foxhall Stadium in the opening race of the opening league meeting against Reading in March.

“I know it will be a race against time, but it is one I want to win,” added Loram.

“To be fair to Ipswich - or another club - I have given myself a deadline of January to decide my future.

“This will not be whether I ride again or not, but whether I will be fit to start the season in March.”

Loram, who lives near Stowmarket, is getting about without the aid of crutches and has been watching the Witches whenever possible.

He would be a certain starter in the Ipswich side next season if he recovers full fitness - and this is still his aim having first ridden for the Witches in 1989.