WIMBORNE Road old boy Gary Havelock believes new king Chris Holder will provide a huge boost to speedway's image throughout the world.

Holder will be given a hero's reception tomorrow night when Pirates and their supporters welcome him home following his world title triumph in Poland.

Poole are hosting Coventry (7.30pm) in a meeting arranged as part of the celebrations to mark the Pirates captain's victorious Grand Prix campaign.

And former Pirates skipper Havelock, the 1992 world champion, says the Dorset club will be greeting a fully deserving GP king.

Havelock told the Daily Echo: “I thought Chris was outstanding, especially considering the start he had to the series in New Zealand. For me, he was the best and fastest rider all year.

“I am pleased for him. He is a great lad and will be a fantastic world champion.

“I think it is really refreshing to have a young world champion. I am not knocking the likes of Tomasz Gollob and Greg Hancock for what they have done because it has been amazing at that age.

“For the image of speedway, to have a young, good-looking and talented Australian as world champion is only going to be great for the sport worldwide.”

Pirates chief Matt Ford, meanwhile, has vowed to make tomorrow's Holder homecoming “one of the most special evenings ever witnessed at Poole”.

“We are so hugely proud of what Chris has achieved that we really must push the boat out on this occasion,” he said.

A series of presentations have been planned and there will also be a fireworks display before the meeting, plus photo opportunities for fans to have pictures taken with the world championship trophy.

Pirates are offering free admission for children and prices are £16 for adults and £13 OAPs.