IPSWICH Evening Star Witches skipper Chris Louis will not be having a speedway testimonial next year.The 38-year-old has been attached to Ipswich since 1989 and enjoyed a testimonial in 1997.

By Elvin King

IPSWICH Evening Star Witches skipper Chris Louis will not be having a speedway testimonial next year.

The 38-year-old has been attached to Ipswich since 1989 and enjoyed a testimonial in 1997.

“I could have had a second testimonial,” explained Louis. “But riders are only allowed two benefit meetings in their careers, and I will be organising a farewell meeting when the time comes to hang up my kevlars.”

Louis and his promoter father John are planning to complete their Elite League team by Christmas.

Rider/manager Louis said: “We have been fortunate to sign the first four riders we set out to get onboard.

“To have seven out of seven would be an achievement.

“We have three riders in mind, and we are working to that end - to run it through to the point where we can get them on contracts.”

Louis confirmed that Ipswich would have been interested in getting Scott Nicholls back at Foxhall Stadium after selling him to Coventry for £36,000 three seasons ago. Nicholls signed for Eastbourne at the weekend.

“The mathematics just did not add up,” said Louis. “If we had known Scott was going to be available three months ago it might have made a difference.

“It would be nice to complete the side by Christmas, and we are working towards that end.”

Louis, who was on a pre-annual general meeting BSPA think tank, says that he is happy with the outcome of the conference held at the end of last month in Coventry.

But he said it could have gone a little further.

Louis said: “I would have liked the promoters to have been a little bit bolder. But I am okay with their decisions, and some good moves were made that will lead to where I would have liked to be.”

Ipswich have so far completed the signings of Jarek Hampel, Robert Miskowiak, Tobi Kroner and Louis.

n This Saturday Witches season tickets for 2008 will be on sale from the club offices at Foxhall Stadium between 10am and 1pm.

Newly-appointed team manager Pete Simmons will be present and pleased to answer fans' questions.

Season tickets cost £300 for adults and £240 for concessions with programme included. Prices will be held until January 31. A passport size photograph is required.

Tickets can also be purchased by post from Ipswich Speedway Promotions, c/o 7, Penshurst Road, Ipswich, IP3 8QZ. Include a passport size photograph, a stamped addressed envelope and a cheque made payable to Ipswich Speedway Promotions. Reserved seats in the grandstand for the season can also be purchased at £15 each.