The Oxford speedway track has been the subject of a lot of criticism this season - and the management have acted by ordering some much-needed remedial treatment this week.

The home riders have not complained about the conditions too much, judging by their four wins out of four in the Elite League so far this term.

But visiting opponents and their promoters have voiced concerns.

The problems arose because the track lay dormant all winter, and no treatment was carried out whatsover.

The winter months are the best time to get the all-important major work done and then leave it to bed in for the start of the season.

However, with the future of speedway at Oxford up in the air at the time, nothing was done to the track.

When Nigel Wagstaff did finally get the all-clear to promote Elite League speedway here, his first priority was to get a team together and then publicise the fact that Oxford were back on the map.

He appointed Dave Norwood as track curator and he has found the going tough.

'Nobby' is restricted on the times he can get on to the track and the recent dry spell made it very difficult.

Now only a concerted effort with the right equipment will solve the problems.

Meanwhile, Wagstaff is still looking to strengthen his squad if he can find the right rider.

He said: "I'm fairly happy with the way things are going so far this season, but I'm always looking to do better.

"If I can find the right rider with the right attitude then I will try and make a move because I want to keep my riders on their toes."

There is speculation that Craig Boyce's loan spell from King's Lynn could turn into a permanent move.

The news that Niklas Klingberg broke a leg riding last weekend is adding to the speculation.

Boycie was good last week against Ipswich and I am told he rode well at Coventry.

He said before the start of last week's meeting: "Give me a couple of meetings and I should be OK around here."

Wagstaff would not be drawn on any permanent move for Boyce, saying: "We shall have to wait and see."