(SPEEDWAY 1)

POOLE promoter Matt Ford is optimistic that he will be able to resolve work permit issues in order to track Russian star Renat Gafurov in the Pirates' 2011 line-up.Gafurov is hoping to return to Elite League racing next season having missed out in recent years following a stint with Swindon.Ford said: "The big issue is getting work permits for Russians, which is by no means straightforward as Eastbourne found last year with Denis Gizatullin."They agreed terms but the rigmarole of getting a work permit meant they just didn't get him to ride for them. Hopefully we have time to get Renat one, and we'll make every effort we can to try and make it work."

 (SPEEDWAY 2)

WORKINGTON owner Keith Denham believes the club have excellent prospects to challenge for Premier League honours in 2011.The Comets have one spot left to fill in their team, which will have a new-look top order of returning favourite James Wright and experienced Czech star Tomas Topinka.Denham said: "I believe we have built a team that will be up there challenging for the major honours. It is looking to be potentially a great year for Workington Speedway."I am getting good feedback from the fans about the team we have put together, and I just hope that is reflected in the number of people we see each week at Derwent Park."

(FIXTURE)

SUNDAY JANUARY 2:

NEW YEAR CLASSIC, Newport 1pm