Loram had expected to be racing for Poole for another season

"You can imagine my surprise, shock even, when I was informed by Poole on 21 December that I no longer featured in their team building plans."

However, Loram is relishing the new challenge.

"They are hoping to sign a couple more riders and things are shaping up well. They are ambitious and are all out for it.

"It's not too long ago that the Panthers were the dominant force in domestic speedway so I am looking forward to helping the club put yet more silverware on the table. "

Poole, meanwhile, sprang a surprise by securing the services of Swedish rider Tony Rickkrdsson, who finished third behind Loram in the World Individual Speedway Championship.

Loram has enjoyed a hugely successful season, winning the world title in his first season on the circuit.

The Maltese-born rider became the first British winner of the series since 1992.

Although Loram did not win a race all season and scored consistently high, he clinched the championship at the European Grand Prix in Poland in September.

As well as switching clubs in Britain, Loram recently left Swedish Elite League club Smederna to sign for Team Svelux, and he will again he racing in Poland in 2001.

Loram will also race in Sweden, Poland and Australia as well as Britain.

The new season starts in Bournemouth on 26 March, but Loram will be in action sooner than that, as he will race in three meetings in Australia in January.

Loram begins the defence of his Grand Prix title in May, and will be the top attraction at the British Grand Prix, which takes place at the Millennium stadium, Cardiff on 9 June.

He said: "This year has been excellent. If I can have any near as good a year next year I will be delighted."