Tigers face extinction
THE future of the Mildenhall Fen Tigers hangs in the balance after two prospective buyers pulled out of a deal to take over the club.
Stadium owner Dave Coventry, of RDC Promotions, revealed to the Journal yesterday that talks over the sale of the West Row-based club with two businessman, believed to be an ex-rider and a current promoter, had broken down.
Hopes of the club being saved now hinge on the final interested party, believed to be another current promoter, securing a deal with former chairman Ray Mascall and Mr Coventry.
As a result of the issue, the Tigers, who sit fifth in the National League have had three meetings postponed, included Sunday's home league clash with Buxton.
"I had been talking to three parties regarding renting the track and two of them decided yesterday morning that the package was not financially stacking up for them," said Mr Coventry.
"There is one remaining person left but time is running out. If nothing comes of it then it would mean the end of speedway racing at the stadium unless the British Speedway Promoters Association (BSPA) extend time for the club to find a buyer."
Mr Coventry has ruled himself out of taking on the Fen Tigers due to a pending court case set for October over noise levels at the stadium.
"I would have taken on the running of the club myself for a year but this court case has cost me a colossal amount of money," added Mr Coventry.
The club is currently in the hands of the BSPA following Mr Mascall's decision to put the outfit, which he and his late wife Jean purchased in 2009, back on the market.
Since making his decision, Mr Mascall has been subject to verbal abuse on speedway forums and on the telephone from fans and sources believed to be close to the riders.
"This season crowds have been down and it has been costing me more money to run than the takings that were coming in," said Mr Mascall.
"With the traumatic effect the death of my wife had on me in May it is only recently that I have realised how bad the situation is regarding the club. As its stands, I stand to lose between 17,000 and 18,000.
If those who have criticised me knew the facts then maybe they would see things differently."
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Friday 25 May 2012
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