ALTHOUGH it is the cycle speedway close season in the UK, Bury’s Laura Watson and John Whiting have been on the other side of the world, taking part in the Ashes series in South Australia.

The inaugural Women’s test series took place on the very fast Findon, Salisbury and Le a fever Circuits. These have excellent facilities and put most of the UK circuits to shame.

GB received a shock in the first match as the Aussie girls raced away to set up a lead that the GB team couldn’t pull back. With some aggressive and skilful racing, the visiting girls knew they had a fight. However, GB made a great recovery with Laura featuring in the winning matches resulting in a 4-1 victory for GB.

Individually, Laura competed in the World Championship as the defending champion. She had a confident S/F score and a good first race, but a missed pedal cost her dearly, and she finished in eighth place overall. Lauren Davies of Leicester won to take the championship.

John Whiting officiated at four events including the World Junior Cup won by Poland from England.

A composite veteran team saw the first senior defeat for the Aussies, two good wins for John after changing bikes.

The club recently held its presentation night at Fishpool Liberal Club. The Rider of the Year award deservedly went to Thomas Whitwam, who has had a tremendous season.

Bury are also taking part in plenty of pre-season training, with both indoor fitness sessions and outdoor cycling and running events.