CRAIG Boyce, who served Ipswich Witches so well over the last two years, has had his testimonial meeting confirmed.It will take place at Wimborne Road, Poole on Wednesday August 27, with 35-year-old Boyce hoping to attract the best riders in the world.

By Elvin King

CRAIG Boyce, who served Ipswich Witches so well over the last two years, has had his testimonial meeting confirmed.

It will take place at Wimborne Road, Poole on Wednesday August 27, with 35-year-old Boyce hoping to attract the best riders in the world. He rode his first English meeting in 1988.

The Australian former world number three is not required by Ipswich and has virtually given up hope of finding a league club by the start of the 2003 speedway season in March.

Boyce has, however, agreed a deal to ride for parent club Poole Pirates in the British League Cup in 2003.

"If I do find an Elite League berth, I have an arrangement with Poole promoter Matt Ford that I can opt out of our agreement," said Boyce today from his Southampton home.

"I am not bitter and would like to thank Witches fans for their tremendous support and help in 2001 and 2002. I really enjoyed my time in Suffolk, and it is no secret that I would have liked to have come back."

Boyce has a 7.75 rolling average despite having the final part of his season affected by a broken shoulder sustained last May. This is too high to be adjusted down to fit into a Premier League side.

"I have seen it all before, and speedway is a one-year occupation," added Boyce. "I am sure things will fall into place and I will get my chance, although probably at the expense of an injured rider.

"Good luck to my mates Jan Steachmann and Shane Parker, who will be doubling up for two clubs this year. But from where I sit it does not always appear to make sense. But that is speedway.

"I rode around 35 meetings in England last season. With challenge meetings I can ride 20-odd for Poole, so there will not be too much difference."

Boyce has re-signed to ride for Vastervik in the Swedish League, and is in negotiations to take part in the Polish League.

He is hoping Witches fans will journey to Poole on August 27 to support his testimonial.

Boyce has stayed in England all winter although he might spend a few weeks in Australia before the season starts.