FORMER British champion Kelvin Tatum has backed Poole Pirates asset Chris Holder to mount a charge for a second world title in 2015.

Sky Sports pundit Tatum, the last man to lead England to World Team Cup glory, says 2012 champ Holder could triumph on the world stage once more having recovered from multiple injuries.

“I admire Chris for his bravery, courage and determination,” said Tatum.

“I know what he’s been through in many ways, I suffered a seriously broken thigh in the early stages of my career and I had to have a hip replacement which has to be managed very carefully.

“He showed glimpses last season and with some good pre-season training I’m sure he can come back stronger and challenge for the world title once again.”

Tatum and Sky colleague Nigel Pearson will begin their forthcoming stage tour at Poole’s Wimborne Road headquarters on Thursday, February 19.

Tickets are available from sportstalkevents.co.uk and doors will open at 7pm with the show due to begin at 8pm. There will be a raffle and a speedway memorabilia auction.

The duo will recount stories from the world of speedway and TV and will also look ahead to the forthcoming season.

Tatum added: "Poole is a great place to start the tour and we are very much looking forward to it. We are in for a good night.”