JOSH Bates will be riding for Sheffield this year after shelving retirement plans.

The ‘Barnsley Bullet’ has today issued his own statement explaining the position as he steps up preparations for the new season.

He said:

I would like to clarify my position for the 2018 season.
I can confirm I will be racing for Leicester in the Premiership and Sheffield in the Championship as I originally planned.
It’s fair to say I have had some personal issues to deal with which I have struggled to handle and it’s not for me to really go into the private details.
I would simply like to thank all my family, friends, sponsors and supporters for standing by me during this difficult time.
I have been back on a bike and I simply love riding Speedway. I would be foolish to throw all that away now.
I have good people around me who can support me and enable me to simply ride the bike and score as many points as possible for my teams.
I wish Speedway fans everywhere a very Happy New Year and look forward to a successful season, for Leicester, Sheffield and I hope British Speedway in general.
The hard work continues here and now as I build up to March.
Josh.

Sheffield Speedway are delighted to welcome Josh back into the fold and wish him all the very best for a successful season as we look to defend our Championship crown.