Oxford East MP Andrew Smith and local councillors have pledged their backing to attempts to save Oxford Cheetahs, writes Robert Peasley.

Smith was unable to attend a packed meeting in Kidlington on Tuesday, but Oxford City councillor Bob Timbs said: "Andrew would have loved to be here tonight, but had to be in Westminster.

"But he will give the fight to save Oxford Speedway his strongest possible support. He'll do everything he can to find out the stance of the GRA and then take it from there."

The GRA (Greyhound Racing Association) own the Stadium at Sandy Lane but have not yet revealed their plans for 2008.

The immediate aim for speedway fans is make sure the stadium stays as a leisure facility. They also want to block any possible introduction of stock cars as a replacement.

Timbs added: "We would not be happy for stock car racing to take place at Oxford Stadium.

"Sandy Lane is not a big enough road for the large trailers to travel down. Also, I've been to a stock car meeting and it's very noisy - much louder than speedway.

"I've spoken to the head of environmental health, and the introduction of stock cars would be blocked - it's a no-go."

County councillor Val Smith, also the wife of Andrew Smith, said: "The stadium is a sporting facility and we will making enquires and then taking the appropriate action to make sure it remains that way.

"Speedway and greyhounds have worked together in the same stadium for years, and they work together well.

"We can be very persistent. We'll keep on going until we get the answers we need."

11:45am Thursday 17th January 2008

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