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LAKESIDE have secured a major two-year team sponsorship deal with Grays-based Vortex Performance Exhausts.The team will now be known as the Vortex Lakeside Hammers with company MD Barry Mead delighted to be moving into speedway for the first time after other successful motorsport sponsorships.Lakeside co-promoter Jon Cook said: This is a massive boost to the clubs preparations for the year ahead, representing the most significant sponsorship package of our time with the Hammers and being over at least two seasons is a great show of faith in the team and sport. We are aiming to make this another season to remember and we hope the Vortex Lakeside Hammers will be making all the headlines in the Elite League in the months ahead.(SPEEDWAY 2)

FREDDIE Lindgren paid tribute to riders and fans alike for braving freezing temperatures to support his testimonial at Monmore on Sunday night.Thousands packed the terraces to see a high-quality field, and it was Aussie youngster Darcy Ward, who answered a late call to replace Nicki Pedersen, who stepped up to win the event in a run-off with Swindon's Hans Andersen.Lindgren said: Id like to thank everybody who came and supported my meeting and thanks to all the riders, staff and sponsors. I was really happy to see so many people here. I know the racing wasn't the best at times but after the track was graded it got better.I was pleased to get Darcy to do the meeting because it was tough when Nicki pulled out. Darcy was in Poland but was able to fly back and as soon as he said yes I knew he had a chance of winning it with the talent he has on a bike.

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THURSDAY MARCH 14:BOB KILBY MEMORIAL: Swindon 7.30

FRIDAY MARCH 15:BRANDONAPOLIS: Coventry 7.30

SATURDAY MARCH 16:BRITISH UNDER-21 SEMI-FINAL: Plymouth 7pmEAST MIDLANDS BOWL: Leicester v Coventry 7.30