THE future of speedway in Newport is again under the spotlight today with the owners threatening to axe the second-string Hornets if crowds at Queensway Meadows don’t improve.

The Hornets face the Isle of Wight Islanders in the Knock Out Cup tomorrow afternoon from 4pm and promoter Steve Mallett has vowed to withdraw them from the National League if fans don’t turn out in bigger numbers.

The Hornets face the daunting task of overcoming an 18-point deficit from the first leg, which took place on Tuesday night at the Smallbrook Stadium, Ryde, but may face far bigger upheaval.

“I have already had preliminary talks with the sport’s governing body about the implications in terms of fines etc but matters cannot continue to be sustained at the present level of attendance,” Mallett explained.

“We have one of the best infrastructures for rider development in British Speedway in terms of running training schools, a team in the National League and a senior team in the Premier League, but the sums don’t add up and a tough decision with respect to the Hornets is pending.

“If fans want to see the lads continue in action they need to get down to Queensway Meadows and show their support.”