A leading Workington Comets supporter believes a top-drawer rider would bring the fans flocking back to the Zebra Claims Stadium.

Friends of Workington Speedway committee member Steve Straughton says a leading rider and more supporters joining the fan group could be the catalyst for Comets to succeed.

Last week, club owner Laura Morgan said that attendances for the club’s final home fixtures this season could carry a lot of weight as she considers the club’s future.

Steve, who is one of more than 20 FOWS members, hopes Morgan will elect to keep the sport in the town and said fans have a bigger part to play than ever in supporting the club.

He said: “What Laura had to say in the Times and Star last week was worrying.

“I understand her disappointment at the drop in crowd level for the Somerset meeting but it wasn’t a complete surprise following the disappointing team performance against Glasgow, who incidentally brought a large travelling support with them.

“Rider performance can have a detrimental impact on crowd levels, I’m not sure the riders themselves realise quite how much.

“The future of a lot of speedway clubs is uncertain and falling attendances over a number of years has helped push a lot of clubs into financial difficulties.

“What is becoming increasingly obvious during this difficult period for the sport is that fans will have to play a bigger part than ever to help secure the future of their speedway teams.

“It would be unfair to put the ills of speedway solely down to dwindling supporter numbers because there are a number of contributing factors ranging from rising equipment costs to speedway’s governing body.”

Steve wants the club to make an exciting addition this winter to ease the burden on Comets’ No1 and captain Ricky Wells.

He said: “Teamwise, it’s absolutely imperative we sign a top-quality rider capable of scoring double figures home and away to support Ricky Wells.

“This would be a catalyst for success and help put bums on seats."