Vortex Hammers release Bjarne

Lakeside Hammers bosses have reluctantly released Bjarne Pedersen from their team plans due to a series of fixture clashes.

The Vortex Hammers promoters Stuart Douglas and Jon Cook took the decision after agreeing Pedersen’s absence would have an adverse effect on their season.

Cook said: “This has proved beyond Bjarne’s or our control and following an Elite promoters meeting last week it was clear this situation wasn’t going to improve and if anything would worsen.

“After last year’s struggles, for us to open the season in the knowledge one of our top riders would miss three meetings against title favourites Belle Vue as well as clashes with Coventry and Poole just couldn’t happen.

“We wish Bjarne well, this wasn’t of his making or ours but we believe we can’t enter a season in this way.”

The Vortex Hammers are now pursuing their next option with a club statement expected in the next few days.

Image: Arena Essex Raceway. Credit Rob Newell / TGS Photo