Beaumont Park, the new home of the Leicester Lions Speedway team is continuing to take shape. The outline of the 330 metre track is now clearly visible after the top surface was removed last week revealing a shape and size designed to encourage exciting racing; a trademark of the old Blackbird Road circuit.

David Hemsley, Managing Director of Leicester Speedway Limited, praised those involved.

“Our project partners, Oliveti Construction and Maxi-Waste are on site and the work plan is to schedule. I am extremely pleased with the progress being made and people can now see the location visibly growing.

“It is a real team effort by all concerned and I am indebted to members of the Supporters Club who continue to give up their time to help complete a number of smaller but equally important tasks at the venue”.

Martin and Lin Rogers (pictured above with Lions’ Sporting Director Sam Ermolenko) who presided over the last four seasons of speedway in Leicester are back in the UK to help co-ordinate the book launch of speedway legend, Ivan Mauger’s autobiography. The pair recently visited to Beaumont Park to check on the progress of the new facility.

Martin is delighted that the sport is returning to Leicester.

“Naturally, I was extremely pleased when I heard about the campaign to bring speedway back and I applaud the resolve, determination and dedication of those involved to see the project through to a successful conclusion.

“During our time as promoters of the Lions, speedway was one of the top sporting attractions and sat comfortably alongside the mainstream sports in Leicester. It was a sad day when news broke that the Blackbird Road stadium was to be sold and demolished. We had invested huge amounts of energy and emotion into Leicester. It was a thrilling ride and we were immensely sorry when it was cut short. The closure left a great void in people’s lives as speedway was their be all and end all.

“Along with many other people, we too have shared the belief that one day we would see the Lions back on track. During our time in charge we made many friends who have remained part of our lives. We are so pleased for them that they will have a speedway team to support again after 27 years.”