BELLE VUE Colts have moved to sign Connor King to plug the gap left by broken collarbone victim Harry Fletcher.
The 26-year-old will make his debut against the Oxford Chargers in the WRSA National Development League at the National Speedway Stadium on Sunday, June 1 (1pm).
King, who first rode for Isle of Wight in 2019, joins on a 3.39 average which he achieved with Kent in 2023.
JR Ashworth Colts joint team boss Steve Williams said: “Harry had the operation to plate and screw his collarbone on Wednesday but he now faces 10-12 weeks recovery time.
“We don’t want Harry to feel pressure to return too quickly, and in view of our other injury problems, we felt it better to bring in a new rider rather than be looking for a different three-pointer for each meeting.
“Connor had made it known that he was keen to make a comeback, and he fits perfectly for us.
“It also means that Jack Shimelt can move back into the reserve berth where he was intended to start the season.
“Our injury headaches forced him to move up, and he has held his own, but a switch to reserve should give him a boost.
“Harry knows he is welcome at any Colts fixtures and we will review things when he is ready to race again.”
The Colts also hope to welcome Mason Watson back next Sunday after he suffered a broken hand in his opening National Trophy meeting.
Directly after the NDL clash, there will also be the British Youth Championship (125cc), starting at 2.30pm.