LEICESTER have snapped up Drew Kemp to replace Craig Cook on the eve of the season.
The Lions revealed today that former British Champion Cookie has told them he is “unavailable” to race.
It means a return to the east midlands for Kemp who was actually dropped by the club in the ROWE Motor Oil Premiership last season - but returned to race in the second leg of the Grand Final.
The Lions go to Birmingham on Monday in the KO Cup and Kemp steps in with immediate effect.
In a statement, it was revealed: “Leicester Speedway have been informed by Craig Cook on the eve of press and practice today that he will be unavailable to race at this time.
“With the new season for the Watling JCB Lions beginning next Monday at Birmingham in the KO Cup, the club have had to move quickly to make alternative arrangements.
“We are grateful to Drew Kemp for answering the call, and he will be in the Lions team starting on Monday.
“Drew has also immediately made himself available for the team lunch and karting session followed by press and practice today, as well as the Premiership Media Day at Oxford on Sunday.
“We thank him for his rapid response and look forward to seeing him today.”
Words by Holeshot Media.
Images by Taylor Lanning.