With the signature of Leigh Lanham obtained for next season, the promoters at Arena Essex are now working towards building the remainder of the side and are hopeful of announcing two more names before Christmas.

The addition of a new heat-leader to support Lanham at the top end could spell an exit for one or two of the present Hammers although Troy Pratt is likely to remain having been granted a testimonial next season.

In a sport where the team strength is governed by averages rather than the size of a promoter's wallet, predicting who is going and staying is always somewhat speculative.

And Colin White, who skippered and often carried the side last season, is another who is likely to feature in the crossed Hammers race-jacket once again next year.

Certainly the Hammers will have to offload riders if they are to bring in a genuine top line heat leader who can offer Lanham the necessary support particularly on away tracks if the promoters are to realise their intentions of building a side that can challenge for the championship.

Eyes might be cast in the direction of last season's Premier League winners Exeter who are having to rebuild their side, thanks to a series of runaway home wins that left riders' averages soaring - and in some cases highly inflated.

The Falcons will be forced to lose at least one of their heat leaders and Arena would do well to target Michael Coles should he become surplus to requirements at the County Ground.

The re-opening date at the Purfleet Raceway next season has been confirmed as March 23 and season tickets are on sale.

The price structure for season tickets if application is made prior to January 31, 2001 is £180 for adults, £90 for senior citizens and £70 for children (ages five to 14).

From February 1, 2001, the prices increase to £200 for adults, £110 for senior citizens and £90 for children. All the prices include a programme and car parking.

Applications should be sent with two passport-sized photographs and a stamped self-addressed envelope to Arena Essex Speedway, Speedway Office, A1306 Arterial Road, Thurrock, Essex RM19 1NX and cheques made payable to Arena Speedway 2000 Limited.

Additionally, anyone applying for a concessionary rate season-ticket should supply proof of age.

Season tickets will not be eligible for any BSPA event or testimonial meeting staged at Arena. All existing season ticket holders will receive a separate mailing shortly concerning next year's tickets.

Racenight prices will be £9.50 for adults, £5 for senior citizens and £4 for children between the ages of five and 14 and include programme and car parking.

Converted for the new archive on 19 November 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.