Neil Collins had a rough time at the New Year Classic - but at least he didn't return home empty handed.

The evergreen Collins, plagued by engine trouble, lifted the fans rider of the year award at the celebration evening following yet another successful meeting.

Tim Stone, Newport promoter, said: "It was an overwhelming decision by the fans to name Neil as their number one."

And the winter meeting, once again, proved a big hit despite the sleet and rain which fell for most of the afternoon, so much so that Leigh Lanham, who finished third to winner Brent Werner, has intimated that he wants to take part next year.

Stone added: "I have already had a mobile phone text message from Leigh that he wants to ride and Brent will have to defend his title. And Richard Hall (he rode in the meeting for the first time) has also asked if he can make a return.

"All I have heard is positive things about the meeting. I know that some fans didn't come because of the weather.

"The gate was down on last year but those who did make it were happy - not a murmur of complaint from the fans or riders. It was another feather in the cap for Newport speedway.

"And Stuart Robson and David Howe, who didn't ride because they were injured, will also be back next year."

American Werner, celebrating his success at Newport's New Year Classic on Sunday, was very laid back with his success. Werner, part of the Premier League championship side Rye House but now linking with Elite League Eastbourne, said: "At this time of the year and in this weather (it was an unpleasant heavy drizzle for most of the afternoon), you have to rely on your gating and I just concentrated on making the right moves."

And that gave him the edge over Coventry's Cornishman Chris Harris, chasing a hat-trick of wins, but had to settle for second spot on his mongrel mount having sent his machines back to Denmark for a winter overhaul.

He rescued an old grass-track engine and used bits and pieces from several machines. Harris said: "I didn't get the gating right but it was still good racing and I was pleased with the meeting."

l Welshman Phil Morris, released by Newcastle after a season and currently riding in New Zealand, is understood to be riding Elite League with Belle Vue this summer.

l The Wasps will be at home to Severnside rivals Somerset Rebels in the British Car Auctions-sponsored Severn Bridge Trophy at the Hayley Stadium on March 12 (tapes-up 2.30pm) - the same day that Sean Wilson, who rode the New Year Classic on Sunday for the first time - holds his 20th anniversary meeting at Owlerton Stadium.

l Newport's Craig Watson scored five points in the second round of the Australian championship at Mildura. The next stage is at Gosford tomorrow and the final round at Newcastle on Saturday.