inMANCHESTER tonight stages a speedway Ashes Test for the first time for 45 years, writes JOHN TURNER.

Holders England meet Australia at Belle Vue (7.30pm) in the first of three matches.

The last time the old enemies met in Manchester was at the old Belle Vue track in 1952, when the Aussies won 58-50.

That was the last of 13 Ashes Tests at Belle Vue, starting in 1930. The series went into cold storage until being revived two years ago.

Jason Lyons is the only current Belle Vue rider involved tonight. He lines up for the Aussies with ex-Ace and track record holder Joe Screen at No 1 for England.

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