JOINT Sheffield Tigers owner Peter Mole is in an upbeat mood... despite a third national lockdown.

And he’s urging fans to look out for each other during this spell, particularly those who are living alone.

Mole believes there are good times ahead with the new vaccine programme set to gather pace and the prospect of improved weather to fight the virus in the spring.

He’s also urged people to be kind and good natured on social media at a difficult time for the nation.

“Lockdown was not what we wanted to hear, but to most of us was expected,” he said. “The new strain of virus and rising infection rates made this inevitable, but this time I believe it is so much a case of the glass now being half full, not half empty.

“With the fantastic vaccine programmes being rolled out, this lockdown will help massively.

“At Sheffield we are confident that we have all eventualities covered and will be ready for tapes up as soon as the go ahead is given.

“Until then, we must stay positive, stay safe and follow the rules, so we can enjoy our speedway again. It will be how we react collectively as a fan-base that will determine how successful the season will be, so please stay positive and continue to give us your fantastic support.

“Now is the time to keep negativity off the forums, stop all the politics and bickering, pull together and really help both your club and sport through these most difficult of times.”

Mole wants fans living alone to stay strong and says his thoughts are with them.

“I particularly feel for our fans living alone who may be facing increasing difficulties during these times,” he said.“Embrace the social media, some great things are happening to keep up to date with all Tigers news

“Some of our fans living alone maybe elderly or vulnerable, if you know of someone like this get in touch, an offer of fetching shopping and some speedway chat will really cheer them up. “This situation will make us all realise we are a lot stronger than we thought, be proud of yourselves.

“Stay at home, protect the NHS, save lives, is not forever, and indeed puts speedway into perspective.

“But follow the rules, and I am positive with everything happening, every plan and development, we will be welcoming everyone back to Owlerton as soon as possible.

“The team is looking fantastic with a couple of planned changes, and I am as excited as I have ever been for the start of a season, especially after missing last year.”