TONIGHT'S memorial meet for Robins rider Bob Kilby has been called off due to rider availability.

Swindon Speedway reluctantly took the decision this morning to postpone the meeting at the Abbey Stadium.

There have been major issues with rider availability for the season-closing event and Robins bosses have elected to pull the plug rather than run a sub-standard meeting.

However, the club can confirm the Bob Kilby Memorial will open up the 2015 season, with the date already fixed for Thursday, March 26.

That will be one week after press and practice (March 19), and the first top-flight action will see the Robins take on champions Poole home and away on Good Friday, April 3.

Promoter Alun Rossiter said: “This is a major disappointment for everyone at the club and it’s with great regret that we’ve taken this decision which is down to a series of unforeseen circumstances.

“Stevie Worrall unfortunately broke his wrist on Tuesday, and two of our main draws in terms of special guest riders are now also unable to ride.

“Shawn McConnell has been ruled out by work permit issues, and that’s something which is going to have a big effect on everyone going forward, and also Charlie Gjedde has been unable to travel as he has urgent business to attend to with his work.

“I’ve tried all sorts of riders to replace them but there is a serious lack of availability and several are already booked for the 16-Lapper at Ipswich.

“It’s such a shame for everyone, including Tobias Musielak who has driven all the way from Poland in order to ride.

“I’ve spoken to Lee Kilby and we are all in agreement that it is better to postpone the meeting and run it at the start of 2015 with a line-up that does the event justice.

“It’s a great pity to end the year in this way, but at least we do have dates in place for the opening weeks of next season which will be something for everyone to look forward to.”