Louis has made wholesale rider changes at Foxhall this winter

Ipswich Witches director of speedway Chris Louis says the club is still on the hunt for a major sponsor.

A deal with a potential backer fell through in November, leaving the Witches' long term future in jeopardy.

"We could certainly get to the tapes without the backer but it is going to be financially difficult," Louis told BBC Radio Suffolk.

"Last year the club suffered very large losses and we can't sustain it again, so it is vital to have a backer."

The Suffolk side have chosen to ride in the Premier League in 2011 after finishing bottom of the Elite League last season, and the decision already seems to be paying dividends with season ticket sales outstripping those of 12 months ago.

"Supporters have bought in to the young team, the average age is just over 22," Louis added.

I must admit we finished the team early and thought 'That's a title-winning side' Chris Louis

"I think every fan locally can see that every single rider's going to be giving 100%, which unfortunately the last couple of years in the Elite League hasn't always been the case with the busy schedule."

The Ipswich line-up for 2011 combines the experience of Kevin Doolan and Morten Risager with talented teenagers Jerran Hart, Lasse Bjerre and Taylor Poole.

Louis is confident he has built a competitive side.

"The team is built on potential with Jerran, Taylor and Lasse in particular," he said.

"It certainly has the potential to be a top team - I must admit we finished the team early and thought 'That's a title-winning side'.

"But I've got to say as each team gets finished each side looks pretty strong."

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