JAMES Cockle scooped the Dorset Echo Rider of the Year at the Weymouth Weyline Wildcats’ end of the season presentation.

The number one ace has been a consistent performer for the Cats despite their miserable season, which culminated in finishing bottom of the National League pile.

Team-mate Gary Cottham picked up the Weyline Taxis’ Most Entertaining Rider of the Year trophy.

And both men are keen to stay at the Wessex Raceway, providing outgoing chairman Phil Bartlett is successful in his bid to sell the Radipole Lane club.

On the subject of finding a suitable buyer, Bartlett said: “I am talking to someone who is quite seriously looking to take the club forward, I hope to be able to make an announcement very, very soon.”

Last Thursday, Bartlett attended a BSPA meeting and added: “It looks like this league is going to be very strong, “Mildenhall look to be returning and with the possibility of another couple of clubs joining, the league may go up to 12 clubs.

“There is a further meeting set for December 7, which is going to be the cut-off point for teams’ declarations of intent to enter for next season.

“There will be a few more changes, I don’t always agree with changes for changes sake, but we will see.”

Two other presentations were made at the awards night. A large framed photograph went to main sponsor Weyline Taxis while announcer Tim Helm was issued with the outstanding contribution trophy.

Bartlett finished by thanking the supporters for turning out each week before bidding his farewells.

Training sessions continue through the off-season with the dates published at weymouthwildcats.co.uk The next one takes place on Saturday, November 27 (12-4pm)