GLENN Cunningham, a great favourite at the Oak Tree Arena, has become one of the first riders to announce that he will be taking part in the testimonial meeting for Paul Fry at Highbridge on Friday, March 23.

Both Fry and Cunningham rode for the Somerset Rebels last season, but neither has been able to find a club so far for 2007. Two other riders confirmed for the meeting are Rye House's Chris Neath, who rode with Fry when they were both at Swindon, and Somerset's Ritchie Hawkins.

Fry's testimonial date had been arranged for March 30, but it has been brought forward by a week. Fry explained: "When the Elite League fixtures were released, eight Elite League clubs were riding on the same night as my original date and this ruled out a number of riders who had said that they could ride for me.

"Luckily, I was able to move my meeting forward by a week, swapping it with Somerset's Premier Trophy match against Rye House which will now take place on March 30. I am indebted to Len Silver at Rye House for agreeing to the change of dates, because, without his co-operation, my testimonial would have been devoid of any top stars from the Elite League."

Fry, 42, went on: "Although this is my 20-year testimonial, it's the first one I've had; somehow, my ten-year testimonial meeting passed me by! However, I would like people to know that it is not a farewell meeting for me. I still believe I have a lot to offer the sport and if any team are looking for a rider during the season, then I'm available!"

The format will be a 16-rider, 20-heat individual meeting, with the top two riders going straight into to the final and the next four competing in a semi-final race-off for the other two spots.

The names of further competitors will be released over the next few weeks and Fry is hoping that they will include number of Grand Prix stars, both past and present.

Anyone who would like to sponsor any of the participating riders or heats should contact Paul Fry on 07980-275965.