Walker looks forward to 2007.

Somerset Rebel speedway star, Simon Walker, is looking forward to the 2007 season and the fresh challenge it will pose for him.

A relatively late starter to the world of speedway, and having spent his Premier League career riding in one of the two reserve berths for the Rebels, the new season will see Walker riding in the main body of the team for the first time, but the 26 year old is more than ready for the challenges this will bring.

"Of course it will be more difficult riding in the main body of the team," agreed the Badminton based Walker, "and even more so as it looks like I will be riding in the number 2 position in the team, but I feel that the time is right for me to make that step up from reserve."

"When I look around at the other teams in the Premier League, a lot of them are using a rider who rode at reserve in 2006 in the main body of the team this year, and as I've beaten most of them around the Oak Tree Arena, I don't think I've got much to fear on that front."

"Obviously away from home will be a different proposition, and it is here that I need to step up my game, but I am sure I can do it."

"Having 'Zorro' [Magnus Zetterstrom] as my partner in three out of my four races could been seen as an advantage for me, but people have to remember that he will have the opposition heat leader to contend with in those races, so he may not be in a position to look out for me!"

With the step up in class comes the need for Walker to ensure his machinery is in tip-top condition, and this is something he has been concentrating on during the winter break.

"I have bought a new engine as well as replacing just about everything else in the last couple of months." "Buying new equipment does not come cheap, but that it the price a rider has to pay in order to improve and I am sure that I am not alone in this respect."

"Sponsorship is vital for a rider and I have, hopefully, a new sponsor who is willing to help out for the new season, but should other potential sponsors like to come forward to assist then I would be more than grateful."