(SPEEDWAY 1)

STOKE manager John Woolridge has been forced to stand down from his position due to ill health. Woolridge, in charge of the Potters since late 2008, has acted on the advice of doctors and the club will now seek a replacement. Promoter Dave Tattum said: "John called me on Friday afternoon and has been told he has to take things easy and that he could no longer continue as team boss for the coming season."He has always been a loyal servant here at Stoke and has always stood by the club and we wish him a speedy recovery."

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NATIONAL League Champions Bournemouth have completed their squad for their title defence with the signings of Kyle Howarth and Karl Mason.16-year-old Howarth will join the Bournemouth asset base after racing for Scunthorpe in 2009, whilst the more experienced Mason comes in from Newport. Buccaneers manager Garry May said: "Howarth is an extremely good young prospect, with a great deal of potential. "However to help him acclimatise to the rigours of league racing, he will line up in one of the reserve berths for the opening matches although I expect him to be pushing for a full team place before too long. He's more than pleased to have joined the club and is already looking to the start of the season."Mason is a proven point scorer who will provide us with some excellent backup for our established heat leaders. He is certain to improve his average and we will be looking for him to add some extra strength to our middle order."