ELITE League title contenders, the Lakeside Hammers, have received a record number of season ticket applications ahead of the new season.

The Arena Essex-based speedway team have already beaten previous records last season. The Hammers have upped the previous figure again, managing an in excess of 250 per cent increase over the last two seasons.

"It's fantastic news," said club boss, Stuart Douglas. "It would appear to vindicate the approach taken by Jon Cook and the promotional team to turn this club into a major force in British speedway.

"The Season Ticket holders are the life blood of any sporting club and to witness such a high increase in their number since we took control of the Hammers is gratifying to say the least."

Fellow co-promoter Cook added: "It's symptomatic of the enthusiasm sweeping through the club and supporters. There is a long way to go, but hopefully throughout the season we will see more and more new faces enjoying a brilliant evening of speedway."

The Lakeside Hammers season starts with a bang when fellow title chasers the Poole Pirates visit the Arena Essex Raceway on Friday March 14.