Fans to celebrate team's 27-year wait for a trophy

Danny King called the title win a "dream come true"

Speedway fans are being encouraged to "share in the pride" of their team's long-awaited victory at a special town centre event.

The Ipswich Witches ended a 27-year wait when they lifted the British Speedway Premiership trophy for the first time since 1998.

The team clinched the championship with a 46-43 win over Leicester Lions at Foxhall Stadium.

In commemoration of the landmark victory, a celebration will be held on the steps of Ipswich Town Hall on Friday from 12:30 GMT.

'Momentous occasion'

Organised by Ipswich Borough Council and Ipswich Central, the event will give fans the chance to cheer the team and hear from the riders and management.

Mayor Stefan Long, who was present at the final, said: "This is a momentous occasion for Ipswich.

"The Witches have brought joy and pride to our community, and we look forward to celebrating with them and their fans."

Ipswich Witches rider and team captain Danny King in action on the track

The win came in the second leg of the team's Premiership play-off final against the Lions, over whom they secured a 93-86 aggregate victory.

It was the club's 11th major trophy since they were founded in 1950.

Team manager Ritchie Hawkins described the night as "amazing for everyone involved at the club," while captain Danny King, who has been with the Witches since he was 16, called it "a dream come true".