I think the track problems at Redcar are simply due to lack of investment. Brian Havelock is notorious for being tight with money, that's why Doolan left and Davey has to buy his own tyres. Getting the crowd in and then spending about an hour making the track half ridable, is unforgivable and probably another nail in the coffin.
I think it's a sad reflection that three of the top four are going into the world under 21 championship (Garrity declined the offer on financial grounds) and it is pretty obvious that they will be way out of their depth.
If last nights coverage had been rubbish (and it definitely wasn't) it wouldn't have mattered as the racing was exceptional. Hopefully the organisers will learn from it and prepare the other tracks like that.
I didn't know you could have someone not currently riding for anyone as a one-off guest? Obviously you can. Two decent looking sides but I reckon Stoke should have a comfortable win.