Birmingham Speedway owner Tony Mole is to stand down after this Wednesday’s M6 Trophy clash with Stoke at Perry Barr.

And the veteran promoter has already struck a deal with Swindon’s Gary Patchett, who lives in Halesowen, to lease the club for the 2010 campaign.

Patchett will be the new club owner with a view to buying out Mole next year subject to permanent planning permission for the sport to continue at Perry Barr.

He’ll be joined by Peterborough’s Mick Bratley – and current Brummies boss Graham Drury is also part of the plans subject to agreeing terms.

Mole said: “The time has come for me to take a back seat and I wish Gary all the very best. It’s a sad time for me in many ways but I could never continue forever.

“I will pursue the planning long term to create a future for the club in order for Gary to take up the option and purchase from me next year.

“I will address our supporters after heat 14 on Wednesday and then again at our end of season awards night next Saturday.”