PETER Schroeck hopes Oxford Speedway can inspire a new generation of fans this year with under-16s able to watch fixtures for free.

All under-16s accompanied by a paying adult can watch every home Cheetahs and Chargers fixture for free when the new season starts on April 5.

Both sides will continue to race on Wednesday nights at Oxford Stadium, competing in the British Speedway Championship and National Development League.

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Oxford Speedway team manager Schroeck said: “The power to weight ratio on a speedway bike is phenomenal.

“These machines will comfortably out accelerate a Formula One car, and more surprisingly have no gears or brakes.

“People are always taken aback when they see a speedway bike in full flow for the first time, especially when there are four riders all battling for the same piece of track.

“It’s a great family sport which has fallen on hard times in recent years. But we have our unique selling points, and Oxford is a shining example of the potential speedway has in the UK.

“Engaging with young audiences is key – they are the future of our sport. We hope our free admission for all under-16s offer appeals to families during these uncertain financial times and we hope to see many new faces trackside in the spring.

“We’ve built a strong team, so hopefully can experience some success on track too.”