(SPEEDWAY 1)

SOMERSET have named winter signing Olly Allen as their new captain after Jason Doyle was ruled out of their plans.Doyle, who led the Rebels to a League and Cup double last season, will not be racing in the Premier League in 2014 due to visa issues and is replaced in the role by Allen, who joins after a year with Rye House.Allen said: “I’m really pleased and flattered about being asked to captain the team. We have a relatively young side and I hope to be able to help everyone with the experience I’ve gained throughout Europe over the last 15 years.“We have an almost impossible task of matching what Somerset achieved last season, but we also have a lot of potential in the side and I’m looking forward to the challenge.”(SPEEDWAY 2)

KENT have appointed former Isle of Wight boss Chris Hunt as their team coach and assistant team manager.Hunt, who rode locally for Iwade in 2005 before taking charge of the Islanders over the last four seasons, will work alongside Kings manager John Sampford who also has Premier League commitments with Rye House.Sampford said: “There will be many times that having an ex-rider to compliment my manager's dutieswill be invaluable, especially with the younger team members. Chris will also look after the team on those occasions when I am unable to travel because of my commitment to the Rockets. “He is a man I respect and I know he will fit in with our club very well. He made it his business last season to let me know how much he admired the whole set-up at Kent and he is now delighted to be with us, just as we are all pleased to welcome him.”