Australian Mark Lemon is returning to the Oxford Cheetahs side for 2002.

He will come in on a reduced average to boost their hopes of retaining speedway's Elite League title.

Lemon, who lives at Bicester while in this country, first lined up for the Cheetahs in 1996 and was an instant hit with the fans before injury curtailed his season.

He then returned to Oxford during the 2000 season, but was hampered by another injury that he picked up in his first meeting for the team, which then forced him out of speedway all of last year.

Cheetahs' owner Steve Purchase is pleased with his latest signing, saying: "Mark is popular on the Oxford terraces and is now back to full fitness which will see him deliver what he is capable of.

"It is also clear why he has signed for Oxford. He really wants to ride for us and that's important. I am confident that he will significantly improve on his average this year."

Lemon, who once showed his liking for the Sandy Lane circuit by punching home an 18-point maximum with Poole Pirates, has had his average reduced by 8.5 per cent, bringing it down to 4.75.

That means he will join Andrew Appleton at reserve.

It will also make room for the return of Dane Brian Andersen for the new season which is just seven weeks away.

Lemon is the club's sixth signing for 2002 and leaves just one space to fill which will be for a top-end rider to support No 1 Leigh Adams.

Season tickets remain available at discounted prices until January 31. Telephone 01235 763559 for an application form.

Confirmed riders: Leigh Adams (10.07), Lukas Dryml (6.82), Steve Johnston (6.49), Ales Dryml (6.05), Mark Lemon (4.75), Andrew Appleton (3.00).