Reborn Kent Kings have announced the appointment of two key positions as they gear up for the new speedway season.

Ben Clifton has been named team manager while Derek Barclay is on board as general manager.

Both men were involved with the club during their Central Park days and have been brought in by new promoter Steve Ribbons after he stepped in to keep Kent speedway going.

The future of the sport in the county looked uncertain when Si Kellow stepped down after two years in charge of the Kent Royals.

But the Kings are back and they’re making good progress off the track.

Clifton - son of former Canterbury Crusaders rider Graham Clifton - said: “After a winter of doubt, a big thanks goes to Steve Ribbons taking the reins at Iwade and we have speedway carrying on in the county.

“Whilst I was shocked to be offered the team manager’s role, it really didn’t take much time to accept.

“I can only say thanks to Steve for putting his faith in me, and what a side he has put in place for me to lead.

“I’m lucky that other than Sam Ward I know all the other lads well and I am sure they will be fully supportive as I take my virgin steps into team management.

“I also count former team bosses Chris Hunt and Jamie Willis as personal friends and I am sure both will be getting the odd phone call looking for advice.”

Barclay was Kent’s press supremo during the Central Park era.

He’s been in a similar role at Mildenhall for the past two years and is delighted to return to Kent as general manager.

“My working relationship with Steve dates back to those heady days of 2002 when he reopened Wimbledon Speedway,” said Barclay.

“It’s ‘against all odds’ things like that by Steve which to me really show the enthusiasm and drive needed to make a success out of running speedway and this is exactly what we’ll be bringing to Kent operating in a new way under NORA (governing body). I’m delighted to be back on board.”

Ribbons said: “Both Derek and myself, despite coming from different backgrounds, care deeply for the sport of speedway racing and are determined to make this season a success and secure the future of the Kent Kings.”

The club have announced details of sponsorship packages on their new website kent-speedway.co.uk