Somerset have signed Steve Boxall (pictured) after his recent victory in Newport’s New Year Classic.

Club bosses were forced to make a move following the tragic death of Swedish favourite Emil Kramer.

But Rebels promoter Debbie Hancock said: “We are not signing Steve as replacement for Emil, which would be an unfair burden to place upon his shoulders, but as a rider that we feel will compliment the other six in the team and one that once he settles into his new surroundings will perform well for us.”

It was a similar scenario to Workington, where with no out-and-out number one available to replace Kevin Doolan they signed Chris Schramm to complete the line-up.

Owner Keith Denham and team manager Ian Thomas actually debated between Schramm and Boxall before making their move.

Sheffield boss Eric Boocock has described the club’s signing of Czech Republic star Josef Franc as ‘a masterstroke’.

Boocock, who remains in charge at Owlerton for 2010, is a big fan of the Berwick man who has joined Tigers on loan.

Said Boocock: “It’s a masterstroke to get him. He’s capable of challenging for top spot in our team but Ricky Ashworth will have something to day about that. So will Richard Hall and Josh Auty, I’m very pleased with the team.”

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