Morris a Diamond.

Newcastle Diamonds' team building took another big step forward, Sunday, when they were able to announce the signing of the hard-riding, always determined and always entertaining Phil Morris as the second 2005 Diamond.

Morris, 29 from Newport in Gwent, began his racing in the UK for Reading (the club he has spent all but one of his racing years at) in 1991, when the Racers competed at Division one level. His only year away from Smallmead came in 1997 when he went out on loan to Stoke, so his excursion to the North East for 2005 has come equally as much as a surprise as a delight to the North Eastern Speedway supporters.

He joins Newcastle on loan from Reading with an average (before reduction) of 8.25 with every chance of upping that a degree over the forthcoming season.

Promoter George English announced the news on Sunday night saying, "Phil's inclusion in the Diamonds' side for next year we see as a very important factor in making sure we won't have another season like the last one."

"He is a true racer, and a top class trier who really does not know the meaning of giving up. This lad will race hard and race determinedly for the Diamonds, and a rider of that class will always be welcome at Brough Park by supporters and management alike."

"He will also be a huge force in the pits for the other lads with his enthusiasm and experience sure to seep well through the ranks, which in turn is sure to see the team gel in a way we desperately need to re-kindle, which will result in good results."

"It's a very real pleasure to welcome Phil to Tyneside - roll on March 2005!"

The first time the Newcastle public will get to see Morris in action on Tyneside in the Diamonds' colours will be at the first practice session preceding the new season on Sunday, 6th March 2005, followed by their annual press and practice day on Monday 7th, with the opening home meeting on Sunday 13th.