Hammers confirm number eight.

Arena-Essex Speedway Promoter, Ronnie Russell, has now announced the name of the seventh rider who will compete for the Hammers in 2005. Welshman. Phil Morris has agreed to become the Club's No. 8.

Morris will, however, only ride in the Hammers colours if there is an injury to one of the top seven in the team. He will concentrate racing in the Premier League where he will ride for Newcastle. He joined them in the winter after having spent many years riding for his parent club Reading.

29 year old Morris was born in Newport, South Wales and made his debut for Reading in 1991. He has remained with the Berkshire club ever since, apart from 1997, when he rode for Stoke. He appeared in four British Under 21 Finals (1993-96) and one British Final (2002). In addition he won three British Schoolboy Grass Track Championships.

Phil initially was in Ronnie Russell's plans or a "Doubling Up" position in the Hammers team but this was turned down by his fellow promoters. However, he is delighted to have the opportunity of lining up for the Hammers, albeit at No. 8.

Ronnie stated: "I was disappointed when my application to use Phil Morris as a "Doubling Up" rider was turned down but he was happy to become our No. 8. He will concentrate riding for Newcastle in the Premier League in 2005.

"I am sure that he will do a good job for us if he is called on to ride. He has always been popular with our supporters when he has raced against us and he jumped at the opportunity of getting some racing at the top level in 2005. He will be a vital member of our squad.

"That just leaves me with one more rider to sign to complete our team. I have been in discussions with several overseas riders but I have now brought my dealings down to just one rider. I hope that he will agree to join us and I hope to be being able to announce the name as soon as the final formalities have been completed.

"This final rider will initially ride in one of the reserve berths alongside Paul Hurry but I believe that both of these two will be capable of moving up into the top five. This will mean that we should be very strong at reserve during the course of the season."