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REIGNING British Open Champion Martin Smolinski will defend his ice-racing title at Telford next February.The popular German was a sensation on his debut at the venue in 2008, and World Indoor Ice bosses are delighted to have him on board as the event returns to the calendar.Co-promoter Graham Drury said: "Martin is what Telford is all about, he's a showman and a true entertainer in every sense of the word."He plays to the crowd and he will help to create a terrific atmosphere at the ice rink. He was brilliant when he won the title and he is going to take some stopping this time."I certainly feel we have made a great start to the line-up, we have brought in Telford ice specialists and both the afternoon and evening sessions are going to be something special, I feel sure of that."

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SOMERSET promoter Debbie Hancock has wished 2010 Rebels rider Ritchie Hawkins well for his switch to Rye House next season.The Rebels are yet to confirm any details concerning their own rider targets, although they have stated that Steve Bishop and Garry May will continue their team management duties.Hancock said: "Team building is a number crunching exercise to get your seven riders under the 42.50 points allowed in the Premier League, and unfortunately Ritchie did not fit into the equation."Once this became apparent we made it known to other clubs that Ritchie was available and Rye House came in to sign him on a loan deal for next season. We obviously wish Ritchie every success with the Rockets and thank him for his contributions for the Rebels during 2010."