DAVID Howe has taken the first step towards a double of winter titles with victory in the New Year Classic at Newport.

The Scunthorpe and King’s Lynn star will be looking to add to his Queensway Meadows triumph when he races in the last-ever Telford Indoor Ice event on February 26.

Howe recovered from a troubled start at Newport to head home Ricky Ashworth, Kevin Doolan and Mark Lemon in the Final.

He will be amongst the favourites at Telford but faces tough competition with promoter Graham Drury set to include a host of ice specialists for the British Open swansong.

MILDENHALL have unveiled two more signings as 2011 Rider of the Year Lewis Blackbird returns and teenager Stefan Nielsen joins the club.

The duo will link up with other returnees Cameron Heeps and Daniel Halsey, with Joe Jacobs expected to complete the top five as he recovers from a broken ankle sustained in Australia.

Co-promoter Michael Lee said: “Obviously we are delighted to get Lewis back. He had an incredible year and I don't think anyone, including Lewis himself, expected he would more than double his starting average. I know our supporters who voted him their Rider of the Year will be thrilled too.

“Stefan comes to us with a growing reputation and looks a terrific prospect. He is still only 17 but has already been part of a league winning team, and wants to build on that success with us. He lives just down the road from West Row, so it's a great signing for both parties.”