The suspension of the new speedway season is a particular disappointment for one Cumbrian rider.

Armadale Stellar Devils had completed their line-up with the signing of George Rothery and the 21 year-old was elated over his first chance in the National Development League season.

The Whitehaven-born racer first tried his hand at the sport in 2013 at the Northside Training Track in Workington.

Prior to that he had no motorcycle experience and since then has developed into exciting prospect.

Armadale hosted the Northern Junior League Riders’ Championship last season when Rothery impressed on his way to winning the title.

He said: “The challenge of being in the league will be good, as I want to see how far I can get in the sport.”

British speedway’s new season was suspended with immediate effect on Tuesday.

The decision was taken in line with other sports following the latest update from the Government on the coronavirus crisis.

Their suspension will be reviewed on April 15 and the situation will be monitored by the British Speedway Promoters’ Association and Speedway Control Bureau on a daily basis between now and then.

Other West Cumbrians who have been affected by the suspension are former Workington Comets trio Dan Bewley, Kyle Bickley and Craig Cook.

Bewley, from Maryport, is due to race for Belle Vue Aces this season, while Workington racer Bickley is doubling up with Berwick Bandits and Belle Vue Colts.

Cook, of Cleator, had signed to return to Glasgow Tigers and King's Lynn Stars.

All three will now face an anxious wait to find out when the season will finally get under way and they can return to the track after months of preparation.