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Ford hopes to see longevity in Lawson after reflecting on Basso asset switch

Danny Ford reflected on the decision to swap Ben Basso's asset status with that of Richard Lawson (Main pictures: Phil Lanning @lannomedia)
Danny Ford reflected on the decision to swap Ben Basso's asset status with that of Richard Lawson (Main pictures: Phil Lanning @lannomedia)

DANNY Ford reflected on the deal which brought Richard Lawson to Pirates as a full asset – and is hopeful the British star will remain at Poole for longer than just this year.

The Pirates promoter admitted the decision to switch asset status between 36-year-old Lawson and 20-year-old Benjamin Basso “turned a few heads” across the sport in Britain.

But Lawson has impressed for his new parent club this season, averaging 9.47 with 21 race wins from Poole’s eight SGB Championship meetings.

He totalled 11 points from five rides in Pirates’ 45-45 draw at Glasgow on Friday, while rising Danish star Basso scored seven points from four outings.

Asked by the Daily Echo to look back at the surprise switch, Ford said: “It was a really funny one because ultimately we changed a 20-year-old for a 35-year-old (at the time of the deal). We turned a few heads.

“But we knew given a bit of time here, Richard would become a real force.

“We have always been great admirers of his and to have the opportunity to bring someone like that on to our books, it was something we couldn’t turn down.

“It appeared Benjamin wouldn’t be returning for us, so we jumped at the chance to build our asset base.

“Bringing in a rider like Richard was an obvious choice and I think he has already shown why we did just so.”

A former Knockout Cup winner with the likes of Glasgow and Somerset, Lawson has formed an elite heat-leader trio alongside Danny King and Steve Worrall at Wimborne Road this season.

Asked whether he could see longevity in the move for the Cumbrian, Ford replied: “I think so. Whenever I see Richard and whenever we speak, he says ‘I just love riding my bike’.

“When have been around the block as long as he has, I am sure the enthusiasm can start to wane.

“I think the move to Poole has done him good and he’s very happy with the environment.

“That’s showing in his performances so hopefully we will see that a lot longer to come than just the season.”

Pirates are next in action at Birmingham on Wednesday (7.30pm).