A LINK between the two professional sports in Ipswich was made today with news that businessman Richard Moore has become a director of Ipswich Evening Star Witches speedway club.

By Elvin King

A LINK between the two professional sports in Ipswich was made today with news that businessman Richard Moore has become a director of Ipswich Evening Star Witches speedway club.

Moore, pictured, is a vice-president of Ipswich Town and a director of the non-decision making ITFC plc board. A football club board that does not include Moore has been created since the Coca-Cola Championship club was taken over by wealthy businessman Marcus Evans.

The Witches appointment will take some of the weight off the shoulders of Ipswich promoter John Louis, who has been running the club on his own for much of the 20 years he has been promoting at Foxhall Stadium.

Moore's arrival will improve the financial situation at Foxhall, and also provide some new ideas and approaches - with Moore, 61, having a varied business experience after running a number of companies.

He is now involved in property development in London and Suffolk, and the firm Cruise Control that was run by one of his sons is a former sponsor of the Witches.

Louis is looking forward to having some help running the Witches. He said: “The last 20 years has at times been extremely tough.

“Through the highs and lows I can honestly say that I have enjoyed every moment.

“But the last four seasons have seen speedway shift to a much more volatile arena.

“It is impossible for any club to operate without a great deal of commercial funding.

“We are extremely lucky to be supported by some very keen and loyal local companies and today's announcement can only help stabilise the club to allow it to move forward.

“I am looking forward to working with Richard and am thrilled that he sees his involvement as long term.”

Rider/manager Chris Louis has helped his father run the Witches for the last four years. He said: “Ipswich Speedway has been run by my father John since 1989 and it has become very much a family business.

“So it is very a big thing for us to have a new director involved.

“Richard's experience in business and as a director of Ipswich Town means that he has a great deal to offer.

“He is a keen fan of all local sport and has been keeping an eye on the club for several seasons.

“He wants to introduce himself to the club and sport gradually, but I am confident it will not be long before he is actively involved and fans, sponsors and riders will notice the benefits of having someone of his immense drive and character involved.

“It is a timely boost for the club as we move into what looks like being a very tough and competitive 2008 campaign.”

Moore, who lives in London, said: “When I was very young I used to walk to Foxhall Stadium to watch the likes of Tich Read ride.

“As a local man, I am delighted to be able to play a part in helping the Witches grow.

“And hopefully maintain top flight speedway in Ipswich.

“I have a great interest in the team as do all supporters. The club has been well run in the past and hopefully I can help this continue into the future.”

Moore, who has been an Ipswich Town director since 1994, is up for re-election at the Ipswich Town plc annual general meeting later this month.