HENRY Atkins has retired from speedway, citing injuries as one of the reasons behind his decision.

The 23-year-old suffered a broken finger, which required plating, in May, and had been struggling to gain full use of his clutch hand.

Atkins was an ever-present for the Oxford Cheetahs and the Chargers in 2023, and was the top scorer for the latter, playing a key role in them claiming the National Development League title.

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He posted on social media: “I’ve got some news that I need to share. I have decided to retire from speedway and grass track.

“This decision has not been easy and may come as a bit of a shock to many. Due to my injuries in recent years, I have had lots of time out of the sport which hasn’t helped my progression.

“Due to only riding in the one league this year, I’ve had to work and run my business more to keep money coming in.

“My mind hasn’t 100 per cent been on my racing and to achieve the very best I needed to be 100 per cent focused, which I was struggling with.”

Oxford Speedway team manager Peter Schroeck said: “Henry has been a huge part of the club since our rebirth in 2022 and he will be missed by everyone, I wish him the very best in whatever the future brings.

“I have asked him not to be a stranger, Henry will always have a warm welcome here at Sandy Lane.”