New Kent Kings promoter Steve Ribbons has issued a rallying call for speedway supporters in the south east to get behind the club.

Ribbons is looking at improving the spectator experience at the Old Gun Site in Iwade, with the opening meeting taking place against Eastbourne Eagles on Sunday, April 14 (2pm).

He said: “Iwade is a great track and despite the Kings currently having only one home fixture a month, our ambition is to build on the connection between the riders and the fans.

“I want to see the place buzzing and I am determined to improve the presentation and slickness of the show - to that end there should be a few new things in place for our opening meeting against Eastbourne Eagles next month.

“To all speedway fans in the south east, come to Iwade for your fix at the home of the Kent Kings.

"We recognise that many from London and surrounding counties where speedway has had such a rich heritage may well have supported other clubs over the years.

“But now is the time to rally around what we are looking to achieve at Iwade and no matter who you support, let’s build a community and show that speedway is very far from dead in this part of the country."

The first chance for fans to see the new-look Kent team and interact with riders and fellow supporters will be on Sunday at the press and practice day (11am-3pm).

Meanwhile, Ben Morley will once again be at number one for Kent.

One of the original septet that graced the shale in the club’s inaugural season at Central Park back in 2013, Morley became the Kings’ record points scorer in two spells: between 2013 and 2015 in the National League and then in the final season, this time in the second tier, in 2021.

Morley said: “I’ve always loved racing for Kent, especially now with it being my most local track. And I’m looking forward to another year riding at Iwade and in the Kings race jacket which means so much to me.

“With matches in the fixtures announced so far against three of my old clubs, Isle of Wight, Rye House and the Hammers, it’s going to be an exciting season.”

For a rider high up in the all-time rankings for points scoring in speedway’s third tier and twice the divisional riders’ champion, there’s an element of change following Kent’s switch to the NORA League.

But the recently-turned 30-year-old is typically laid back about the difference this makes.

He said: “It’s going to be a bit different being in the NORA League, but as long as I can race my bike, I’m happy.

“Hopefully, we have a good season with plenty of entertainment and no injuries.”