Following the news that Cory Gathercole is set for a six week spell on the sidelines with a hand injury Swindon have moved quickly to sign a replacement number eight rider. 

Twenty two year old Australian youngster Joel Parsons joins the Robins' squad as the club prepare themselves for the upcoming hectic period that sees them embark on five meetings in quick succession.

Parsons' Thursday commitments with Sheffield in the Premier league mean Swindon fans are unlikely to see the Australian at the Abbey stadium but he will be called upon if required for away encounters.

The all action racer has ridden on one occasion for Swindon already this
season and proved more than capable of performing at Elite league level.

Swindon co-owner Gary Patchett explains the move: 'The injury to Cory Gathercole means that we were vulnerable as a team without
a designated number eight rider. Whilst we are actively seeking replacements for Seb Alden it is good to know we can rely on Joel, rather than calling on guest replacements.

This gives the club added stability during the late July, early August
schedule and we're confident Joel will perform well when called upon'