Somerset Rebels have been taken over by Bill Hancock, safeguarding speedway's return to Highbridge in 2009.

Hancock, already owner of the team's Oak Tree Arena home, has taken over the club's rider list from former promoter Mike Golding.

David Croucher moves from the Isle of Wight Islanders to take over as the Rebels' general manager.

He said: "I am delighted to be given this opportunity to go to a track which I have always rated very highly."

He added that the new three-year deal would see the Hancock family becoming more actively involved in the promotion of the club.

Pete Toogood will remain as a co-promoter and Steve Bishop will also remain as joint team manager, sharing those duties with Croucher.

Southampton-based Croucher, who has been at the Isle of Wight club for four years, will continue his England under-21 duties.

"Apart from the obvious things like keeping the speedway running, making it profitable and building on the future, I have two main objectives for 2009," he said.

"A trophy - and I don't mind which one - pairs, fours, PLRC, Premier Trophy, or maybe even the KO Cup again.

"The other ambition is to increase the fan base, and with particular regard to the younger ones. That's where the future of the sport lies."

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