FORMER captain David Mason is praying the Wildcats can avoid another 19-year exile.

Weymouth Wildcats initially went into hibernation back in 1984 and failed to return to the shale until 2003.

Last year though, saw the club lose its home and its place in the National League.

And with no light at the end of the tunnel as yet, fears are growing that the Cats will eventually become extinct.

Thankfully, there are plenty of former riders and club officials intent on keeping the name alive.

And a number of them, including Mason, will gather at the Bob Lucas Stadium tomorrow night for a special party (7.30pm).

Mason said: “It looks like the club is coming to an end but hopefully something will happen to prevent that.

“It’s a real shame how it’s come about but this is the way the world has gone of late.

“I don’t know the full ins and outs of what happened but if the track is still there then I don’t see why there can’t be a speedway team using it.

“It was such a long time before speedway returned in 2003 and hopefully it won’t go the same way again.”

Looking ahead to the weekend’s get-together, Mason added: “I’m looking forward to catching up with some of the people I got to know so well. I enjoyed every minute of my time at Weymouth. Winning the Knockout Cup and the Fours was fantastic, as was being captain of the team.

“The club also won the Conference League in 2008 so it was a successful club and the town needs it back. Hopefully something will happen so that speedway can return.”

Fellow ex-Cats Kyle Newman, Mark ‘Buzz’ Burrows, Terry Day, James White-Williams, George Piper, James Cockle, Lewis Bridger and Jon Armstrong are expected to show their support at tomorrow’s party, as is GB rider Eddie Kennett.

The event, which includes a buffet, music and a raffle, is also designed to help raise money for a local charity.

Anyone wishing to donate to the raffle can drop off items at Weymouth Mobility in St Mary’s Street or the Gardeners Retreat Restaurant at Lynch Lane Garden Centre.