GREETINGS FROM UNCLE ‘B’

NEWS Monday 16th February 2015, 6:16pm

by Brian Gray

  Edinburgh Monarchs

I haven't heard of any developments this last week on the Visa problem, so the UK bound riders who are affected are, presumably, still hanging on awaiting news.

I just wonder what it would be like if the boot (or steel shoe if you like) was on the other foot! I've had a wee look online and it appears that you can get a one year working visa for Australia for £245! Wouldn't it be sensible to have a reciprocal arrangement? Let's hope this situation speedily resolves itself and doesn't rear it's ugly head in the future!

Well, we now know that the Press and Practice day is Saturday 28th March and I believe the riders will be on track from 4pm. I'd imagine one or more of our 2015 team will have had a spin in the Theo Pijper Testimonial the previous week but it will be interesting to see our two reserves Robert Branford and Max Clegg take to the track. Robert has signed for the Rye House Raiders this year in the National League. He's certainly going to be clocking up the miles heading south to Hertfordshire after riding at Armadale on a Friday! Max's pre-season preparations seem to be coming along nicely and I'm sure he'll be looking forward to meeting us all after his spin around our track!

Thanks to all the Staff and Volunteers who have been in touch with me. I'll get back to everyone very soon as things are starting to shape up with our plans and preparations for the new season. Of course, it now starts two weeks earlier than originally planned to accommodate Theo's Night of Champions. I'm sure Theo very much appreciates you all helping out on his night and will thank as many of you as he can. Incidentally, there's still time to get in touch with me if you wish to be considered to join us. Send me a short text to 07503 620539 and I'll get back to you.

Our second Video night of the winter is a week on Friday at the usual venue and I can give you a little advance notice that there will be two special guests making an appearance! So make sure you come along to the Thomas Morton Hall in Leith for 7.30 on the 27th of February. Until then, look after yourselves and take care!

Uncle ‘B’