JPB JOINS DIAMONDS

NEWCASTLE have made a change at reserve with Jack Parkinson-Blackburn joining the Diamonds in place of Joe Alcock.

Parkinson-Blackburn, 20, has made his speedway comeback this season after time out due to injury and now gets his chance in the Championship, whilst Alcock is set to continue with the club at National Development League level.

Manager Nigel Hincliffe said: “Jack bounced back well twice including from his bad road traffic accident in 2018, but the lad is now superbly fit and has a fine fitness regime, he looks after himself well and is ready for the step up with the Diamonds.

“He has recently bought two Premiership-ready machines which are top-notch, so he’s mounted on the best too and including Jack as our No.7 will really give the side the lower-end power that the Diamonds really need.

“You could see Joe’s confidence sapping away with every race, and that’s no good for the rider, who will struggle to escape that downward spiral. So it will be much better for Joe, and the Diamonds, to let him have a full year at NDL level.”