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LAKESIDE have announced a change to their opening home fixture on March 28 – which will now be an Elite League clash with 2012 champions Swindon.The Hammers had planned to host Poole in a challenge match but have now elected to go straight into league action rather than face a Pirates side who would not have been at full strength.Promoter Jon Cook said: “What an exciting and risky way to start. The Robins have been dynamite at our place but we believe the 2014 Hammers can kick off our season in style. “All of our riders will have been in action as we ride a Challenge at Poole 48 hours earlier, plus we have the track at the Arena Essex Raceway all week for practice - and what better way to start the season than with three League points!”The Hammers’ news adds to a busy opening week of Elite League fixtures with Birmingham in action four times – at Wolverhampton (March 24), Coventry (March 28) and Eastbourne (March 29) as well as at home to Belle Vue on March 26, whilst newcomers Leicester face Wolves on March 29.

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KING’S Lynn Young Stars have added the experienced James Cockle to their 2014 line-up.Cockle started last season with the Norfolk Arena club but suffered a serious arm injury in the early stages of the campaign and missed their run to the National League Grand Final.Manager Dale Allitt said: “It was unfortunate how James ended last season, especially as he only just joined the team. He has shown in the past that he is capable of being a top rider and I feel that his best is yet to come.“He brings a lot of experience to our side this year and I think he could become a strong heat leader for us. James has worked hard over the winter on his fitness and has invested in new equipment.”

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BUXTON have completed the signing of Tom Woolley for a second season with the National League club.The 20-year-old made the switch to speedway last year after successfully competing in junior grasstrack and shorttrack, and will look to build on his 2013 experience with the Hitmen.Promoter Jayne Moss said: “We are pleased to have Tom back on board for a second season. He is still learning and will more than likely start the season in the main body of the team, but he had a number of spells there last year and it didn’t faze him. “He is popular with fans and riders alike and we are hoping that he can continue where he left off last year as he was getting amongst the points and winning some good races for us.”