WILDCATS chief Brian White is making a bold prediction ahead of his side's maiden season in the Conference League.

The man who brought speedway back to Weymouth last year reckons his Wessex Stadium charges will finish in the top three of the sport's third division.

Speaking at the club's packed press and practice day, he said: "I have to pinch myself sometimes to believe all this is happening. We went almost 20 years without speedway in the town and it's still hard to get my head around the fact that it's back.

"I'm proud to have been the driving force behind the project but it's far more than a one man show. The help and support I've received from hundreds of volunteers, enthusiasts and total strangers has been incredible.

"There are so many people to thank for the re-birth of the Weymouth Wildcats and it would be impossible to name them all. However, I must make special mention of Weymouth Football Club chairman Ian Ridley for allowing us to set up at the Wessex Stadium in the first place."

He added: "It's been a long, hard road with plenty of ups and downs but we're now here on the verge of a new season and I'm really confident about our chances. We've got a good team full of young and determined riders and I'd certainly predict at least a top three finish in the Conference."

Sharing White's optimism is team boss and ex-Wildcats star Mike Vernam who begins his first appointment in speedway management with a home challenge match against Swindon Sprockets on Friday, March 19.

"It's been a real pleasure working with the Weymouth boys at this winter's practice sessions," he said, "and I'm really looking forward to the challenges the Conference League programme will bring.

"There is a lot of talent in this team and I think our prospects are very bright indeed."

Skippering the side again this term is last year's Dorset Echo Rider of the Year Justin Elkins who was almost unbeatable in a Wildcats jacket in 2003.

Backing him up in the heat leaders roles are Danny Warwick and Mark Thompson while big things are also expected from new signings Chris Courage and Paul Candy.

And with the improving Nathan Irwin and Jack Gledhill down at reserves, the Weymouth captain says there plenty for fans to be confident about.

Elkins added: "We might be the new kids on the block, but I think the rest of Conference League will have to sit up and take notice. Weymouth are going to be a force to be reckoned with and if the team lives up to its potential then we'll be pushing for honours.

"The atmosphere down at the Wessex Stadium is electric and there's a real buzz in the pits. And if the support on the terraces is anything like last year, I can't see too many teams turning us over at home."