NEW Great Britain manager Alun Rossiter says the timing of his appointment could not be better.

Swindon Robins chief Rossiter has been handed the position of national boss by the BSPA, succeeding Neil Middleditch who ended his second spell in charge at the end of last season.

The 48-year-old former rider, who has an impressive record of success as a domestic manager including Elite League titles with Coventry in 2010 and present club Swindon in 2012, will now commence the planning for Great Britain’s World Cup campaign which begins at King’s Lynn on July 26.

Rossiter believes the stunning achievements of World Champion Tai Woffinden last year can provide fresh impetus and inspiration to the other British riders.

He said: “I really can’t explain how proud I feel to have been given this job. I did apply for it five years ago, but now I truly feel it’s my time and I can’t wait to get started.

“What a great time to take over as Great Britain manager - I’m taking over when we have the World Champion, Tai Woffinden, in our corner.

“Everyone says the Americans over-achieved last year because of their will and their want, and because they had Greg Hancock. But we have Tai, and what he’s done should give everyone something to aspire to.

“It’s only in the last two years or so that Tai has really raised his game. Everyone should look at what he changed and how professional he is – and also his pure determination and will.

“I’m hoping the riders coming through, the likes of Craig Cook, Richie Worrall, Robert Lambert and several others, can aspire to Tai’s achievements, and if that happens we’re in a great position.

“On top of that, we also have Chris Harris back in the GPs this season and with a point to prove, so I’m sure he’ll come to the party too.

“I feel so lucky to be taking the job on now, and for anyone who feels it’s a poisoned chalice and we haven’t got a chance, I couldn’t disagree more. I’m not just saying that because I’ve got the job – I genuinely believe it.

“I will be getting out and about, I will be watching riders, and I also have to say that Phil Morris and Neil Vatcher have done a fantastic job with the youngsters.

“Phil was one of the first people to ring me up and congratulate me when we received the e-mail, and obviously I’ll be keeping in close contact with them. I certainly hope they will continue, and I feel it’s the right structure to have both senior and U21 managers.

“The main thing is I want riders who want to ride for Great Britain - it’s about putting your jacket on and wearing it with pride. It’s a fantastic time to take over and I’m really looking forward to it.”

MORE ON THIS STORY AT GAZETTEANDHERALD.CO.UK/SPORT