SHEFFIELD Speedway can confirm the departure of Manager and Co-promoter Eric Boocock after four years in charge of the team.

Boocock, one of the legendary figures of the sport with a glittering CV as both rider and manager, feels the time is right to move on although he insists he has not been approached by another club.

Sheffield co-promoters Neil Machin and David Hoggart have thanked him for his efforts on behalf of the Tigers.

They have issued the following joint statement: “Eric Boocock has decided not to represent the club as team Manager and Co-Promoter in 2012 and hopes to enjoy his speedway from the terraces with less stress, after 50 years in the sport he deserves it.

“This will give Eric the freedom to fullfil his other motorcycling commitments and whilst it may be "so long" to his direct involvement at Sheffield it certainly won't be to British Speedway.

“The sport has been Eric's life and he is still as passionate now as he was during his racing days, we really do wish him well and sincerely thank him for his contribution.”