ALUN ROSSITER has been appointed as co-promoter and team manager for Swindon Robins' return to the Elite League next season.

New Swindon Speedway owner Terry Russell has opted for local man Rossiter, landlord of the Wheatsheaf in Lower Stratton, to run the everyday business of the club he purchased from Pete Toogood at the beginning of this month.

The effervescent Rossiter, nicknamed 'Rosco', is no stranger to Swindon Speedway and has now risen through the ranks over the years from mascot to co-promoter and team boss.

The 38-year-old Rossiter first rode for Swindon Sprockets in 1981, graduating into the senior ranks. He had five spells at Blunsdon with the Robins.

A serious knee ligament injury sustained at Poole in 2002 forced him to hang-up his leathers at the start of the 2003 campaign, bring to an end his distinguised 22-year racing career.

Swindon Robins' new owner Russell explained the surprise appointment of the inexperienced Rossiter.

He said:"I had a couple of candidates for the post but after weighing-up all the options decided it was most important to have a local person. Alun has had a lot to do with Swindon Speedway over the years, knows the stadium people well and will work together with Dave Prowse, the commercial manager.

"Rosco is very enthusiastic about his new role in speedway. I have set-up the business and Alun will run it for me.

"Just like my other club Eastbourne he has a budget to work to and the job of building a competitive team within the limits. And one that will beat Eastbourne at Swindon," he added.

Rossiter is still in a daze after the call from Russell offering him the position.

"My head is still spinning but I am very happy that Terry has given me the chance to carry on in speedway.

"It is a huge challenge and one I am looking forward to since my accident it is something I have wanted to do.

"It is a dream come true and something I wanted. I had spoken to Pete and asked to be given first refusal if he ever wanted to sell-out but Terry came in.

"I have always wanted to better myself. "I have been a rider and run my own business at the pub successfully so this is another venture for me.

"Some people in Swindon will be surprised by my appointment but I aim to give it a good go and work for the best interests of Swindon Speedway. I have got the job I wanted without the financial risks involved."

Rossiter added: "Now I have the job of team-building and my first big task is to talk to Leigh Adams. He is a Swindon asset and I want him back riding as the number one at Blunsdon as I know most of the fans do.

"Hopefully I can talk to him very soon and tie up a deal."

Rosco also will now withdraw his application to the British Speedway Promoters' Association to be come the new England Under 21 team boss.

RUSSELL has revealed the extra costs involved in staging Elite League racing at Blunsdon in 2004.

Adult admission charges will rise from £9.50 to £12; while senior citizens will be charged £9 and children £4.