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Allen Trump

Allen Trump has confirmed that he has quit as promoter of Oxford Cheetahs - after failing to agree a lease with his Oxford Stadium landlords, writes ROBERT PEASLEY.

The Exeter businessman had until 5pm last Friday to enter Cheetahs into the Premier League.

But, by then, talks had completely broken down between Trump and the Greyhound Racing Association (GRA).

Trump's departure leaves Oxford looking for its fourth owner since Nigel Wagstaff left the club at the end of the 2005 season.

Since then, Aaron Lanney, Colin Horton and Trump have all had brief spells at Cowley.

Trump will remain in charge at Elite League Coventry, where he was unveiled as the new boss in late November.

Trump said: "I was unable to meet the deadline set by the British Speedway Promoters' Association (BSPA) for my application into the Premier League.

"As a result, I had no option but to withdraw as promoter of Oxford Speedway and hopefully other parties will be more successful in obtaining an agreement with the stadium owners.

"I became involved with the Cheetahs in June 2007 for two reasons - firstly, to ensure the continuity of this great club and put it on a sound financial basis and, secondly, to restore the team to a higher level of speedway.

"I believe that we restored confidence and stability in Oxford and as a result the club achieved my main goal when we were elected into the 2008 Premier League on a unanimous vote by Premier League promoters.

"In addition, I lifted the club out of the financial crisis it was in and by the end of the 2007 season the Cheetahs were solvent with no debt.

"To achieve all of this in just four months is a testament to many people too numerous to mention, but they know who they are. They should all be proud of what we achieved.

"It is with a heavy heart that I have withdrawn from Oxford.

"I can assure all Oxford fans that I will do all in my power to assist anyone who wishes to move the lease agreement with the GRA onto a successful conclusion."

Trump has indicated that he will continue his search to look for an alternative site in Oxfordshire, but it could be a long search, especially given the problems with obtaining planning approval within the county.

Supporters groups have indicated that their priority is to find a new promoter to take over the reigns at Sandy Lane - and secure the immediate future of the club.

BSPA chairman Pete Toogood has indicated that the powers-that-be within speedway will do everything to help Oxford Speedway survive this latest crisis.

Toogood and supporters are awaiting to hear from the GRA before they plan their next move.

8:18pm Sunday 16th December 2007

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