RITCHIE Hawkins has made a solid start on his return to Ipswich Witches, but he still insists his short-term deal is just that.

RITCHIE Hawkins has made a solid start on his return to Ipswich Witches, but he still insists his short-term deal is just that.

The 29-year-old Peterborough-based rider is continuing to study to become a full-time fire fighter and as much as he loves his speedway, he can’t see his time at Ipswich being long-term.

“It’s not I don’t want to ride for Ipswich,” he said.

“I would love to. The team is great and there is a nice atmosphere among the riders.

“The problem is I just won’t have the time to commit full-time – I simply can’t be at all the meetings.”

Hawkins has done a sound job since replacing Jari Makinen in the No.2 position at Foxhall, with some solid scores.

He admits he is pretty pleased with his form.

“I don’t think things are going too badly really,” he said.

“The Star of Anglia individual came round at a good time for me because it allowed me to try some things out.

“The fact I have another job (retained fire fighter) means I don’t have to fully rely on speedway to pay the mortgage.”

Hawkins and the Witches travel to Leicester on Sunday, with a 6pm start for a Premier League clash.

MEANWHILE Ipswich Witches reserve Adam Ellis has gained a reprieve and returns to World U-21 action this weekend.

Sixteen-year-old Ellis, who was knocked-out of the competition after a disappointing performance at Plymouth in a qualifying round last month, has been handed a wildcard entry after Britain were granted another spot in the semi-final at Lonigo tomorrow..