THE brakes may have been put on what was set to be an historic year but Fife Revolutions are showcasing their wheely-good community spirit.

The cycle speedway club, based at Queen Anne High School, made their debut in British Cycling's North and Scotland Division One last month just four years after forming.

A narrow 91-82 defeat to seasoned campaigners Stockport provided optimism for the season ahead but, following the outbreak of COVID-19, all British Cycling events are on hold.

That means the club are unable to train but, as well as scrubbing membership fees for members, they are offering future membership to key workers for free.

Head coach Craig Masson said: "We have no running costs; it's run through volunteering, and we pay race fees on the day so it's good for us that we're not impacted that way.

"Because we're a charity ourselves, we want to give back to the community, and that's why we put the (Facebook) post out. If you're a key worker or the child of a key worker, membership is free.

"I hope we'll see an increase in membership when this is over with. People are following us on social media and recognise the good work we've put in to this point so maybe others will come along and give it a go.

"I'm aware that people have been on the track, which is great, because it's still there to be used. If someone wants to go down and have a shot on their own bike, as long as they keep in mind social distancing regulations, then that's good."

With all British Cycling activity suspended until at least June 30, Masson isn't sure when the Revolutions will resume riding.

They had been due to host a home international event next month but, while disappointed that has had to be cancelled, he is hopeful it will be rearranged.

"We need to see what British Cycling say about these events," he continued.

"The speedway season runs between March and October so it's just a case of being patient.

"British Cycling have said that there will be no activity until July 1. After the ban is lifted, there will be loads of work to do in organising fixtures.

"We started off well and it was looking positive for us, and then all of this happened. We were starting to get new members coming to the club and I hope it makes everyone more eager to come when everything gets back to normality.

"We had nine or 10 junior riders racing against Stockport. That was brilliant, and the biggest we've ever had, which was our focus this year anyway.

"There were loads of encouraging signs we were growing our membership and competing in Division One, Division Two and Division Three."

Masson added: "We're all still communicating. We've not got training or promoting the club in the way we'd like to do, so we need to think of other ways to keep up the profile of the club and the sport.

"In four years, we've been champions (of Division Two last year), introduced the Scottish Open, and been awarded the home international, which is the second most prestigious event after the British finals, so it's all really positive."