Introducing Retro - the new page for old news. We'll be dipping back in our extensive archive to re-present the stories that were making the news in years gone by.
CRAY TIGERS CLUB BADGE - posted 7 March 2010
This memento is an original St Mary Cray metal cycle speedway badge. In the Forties, Cray Tigers were one of the most organised teams around with supporters numbering in thousands.
They were the first to have starting gates, flood lighting and the first to ride international matches in Holland where they won all ten matches.
A CLUSTER OF STARS FROM GUILDFORD - posted 7 March 2010
One of the top teams in South-West Surrey, Stoughton Stars raced alongside the Army barracks. The Commanding Officer and his wife were regular supporters and treated as VIPs when the Stars were racing at home. Note the barracks in the background.
South-West Surrey 1950 Newly formed Busbridge Stars (Godalming) take on the more experienced Stoughton Stars (Guildford). From left to Right: Harold Skilliter (Busbridge), Ricky Crake (Stoughton), Peter Steele (Busbridge), Alan Plant (Stoughton).
Team photo Godalming Bulldogs 1950
Left to Right :- Brian Tubb, Ron Bonner, Dave Clark, Arthur Bird, Rob Hill, Bill Hampshire, Dave Butterfield and Barry Talman.
EX RIDERS AT PARADISE PARK - posted 22 February 2010
Several former pedal pushers visited Paradise Park at the weekend to join in the Speedway Celebration. Among them was ex Estuary and Castle Point rider Peter Griffiths who was on hand with his camera and sent us a few pics.
Left to right Martin Jarvis (East London), Dave jones and Tony Ridgwell (ex Estuary Eagles and Castle Point riders.
Dave Jones and Tony Ridgwell ex Estuary Eagles and Castle Point stand each side of ex Rayleigh Rockets speedway hero Dingle Brown.
Ex Estuary Eagles and Castle Point rider Dave Jones poses with Dingle Brown left and Terry Stone, both of whom rode for Rayleigh Rockets speedway team
LOOKING BACK TO EARLS COURT 1950
This year celebrates the 60th anniversary of cycle speedway's oldest competitIon, the British team championship.
The first championship was held in 1950 when a staggering 277 teams entered the competition, sponsored by the News Chronicle. Over 6,000 spectators witnessed the final at London's Earls Court in an unforgettable night of cycle speedway. Before the team final, England took on Holland in an international match, the Dutch edging to a slender 49-47 victory. Then at 9pm, Gem Pirates from Dorset took on and beat Lancashire, Chorlton Aces by 50 points to 46 in a thrilling team final.
One man who witnessed it all was Arthur Bird. Now 60 years on, Arthur recalls the day, exclusively for spokesman-online readers.
It was a few years later from the start made by the London boys bringing cycle speedway to the fore on bombsites throughout the City, that the sport found its way to Godalming near Guildford in South West Surrey.
Apart from big brother Motorcycle Speedway that would have its appeal to local kids, in Godalming it was the film 'Once a Jolly Swagman' seen locally in 1948. With Dirk Bogarde taking on the main role as an up-and-coming speedway rider and Bonar Colleano, Sid James and Bill Owen also having a role to play. Aarons Hill kick-started the sport off using the name 'Tigers', with a quick change to 'Bulldogs'.
In 1948, the first competitive match took place against a team that had no track of their own, Runfold Hellcats. By this time we had acquired a manager, Mr Dann, an engineer at the local bodyshop of King and Taylor. It was Mr Dann that on his first visit to our track in a sandpit, would make the comment "If you want to make a faster start, change the drive wheel to a ladies standard of 46 teeth as against the male roadster of 48 teeth." With most of our bikes put together from out of the rubble of the amenity tip, the advice given presented no problems. Now take off the rear sprocket of 18 teeth and I will make up a plate to abe-welded on of 22 teeth. And so when the whole district formed teams, we were well prepared for them.
Skipping a year and I found myself through some niggle or other transferring to Cranleigh Eagles. At this time 1950 it would seem that the whole town would participate in giving support and it was not unusual to see 800 supporters at each home meeting.
To this day I don't know how we acquired the tickets, but on Thursday 26th October along with three other Eagle riders, we were on our way to the Empress Hall, Earls Court to watch the first international cycle speedway match between England and Holland with 'Team Trophy' being competed for on the same night. Twenty counties had taken part with 277 teams competing. The finalists were Chorlton Aces (Lancashire) and Gem Pirates (Dorset). The eventual winners, Gem Pirates, were presented with a two foot high solid silver cup by Geoff Duke, senior winner of the Isle of Mann TT.
A surprise awaited the Dutch team on arrival, the track being constructed using smooth shiny boards. Well, we were surprised too - this wasn't the cycle speedway racing we knew, with our hard clay surface, brilliantly fast when dry but quagmire of slippery clay when wet. Fact is we got more support on a wet day and rapturous applause if you coud reach the finish in first place having at times both wheels sliding out from under you. Back to the Empress Hall and the parade with bikes the chrome shining and immaculate. Here Henk de Bruin the Dutch captain takes up the story.
"Although our Dutch tarmac tracks back in Holland could be likened to riding on boards and would serve us well. Many of our tracks had sharp bends and shale surfaces allowing us to broadside early in to the bend and with our long straights the speed would take us all the way round the bend. The Empress Hall with wider bends and without a loose surface would need some getting used to. The short practise spell would show just how slippery the boards were and I finished up scraping the skin off my knee. On the positive side we still found that the boards allowed us to slide right round the bend."
Seventeen-year-old Henk de Bruin had been the the Dutch individual champion since 1948. The Dutch team had complained bitterly in the afternoon about the slippery boards but would later very quickly adapt to them. The match itself was one of the best seen and Englands "picked out of the bag team" did well. None of them had ever rode with one another. Ken Cooper was the best of the bunch scoring 10 points. The England reserves did well between them Ken Vine and Bill Slater scoring in six races 15 points between them (3,2,1,0 scoring).
It was estimated that a crowd of six thousand watched this event although some estimated it was nearer ten thousand. Watching both events would pay 2/- a ticket and 6d for a programme. Gem Pirates captain Jack Pennington being the highest scorer was presented with a new track bike the 'Wally Green Special". The last heat would decide the match. Henk takes it up ...
"Derek Clemmit knew he had to pass me and tried every trick in the book. Both of us knew that the result of the match would hang on the result. I had said to Theo Dusbaba before the race, knowing that Ken Cooper could gate fast, if you get the opportunity chase Cooper as hard as you can I don't want to see you again. This happened and I held Clemmit off to the end of the race. So we finished second and third and the final score was 49-47."
GODALMING VETS STILL GOING STRONG - posted 20 February 2010
Just a little more on the Godalming 'vets' cycle speedway set up. To date we have held an annual reunion every year since 2003 but such was the interest that we had to increase the meetings to two a year, March and September.
All told we have had as many as 33 ex-riders turn up and the average is around 25. No subscriptions! Just turn up if you were riding in the sport from 1948 to 1953. Average age at our meetings is now around 75 years young and we never tire of talking about our sport.
Following the carnival event at the Bury's Field in Godalming with a crowd of 3,000, we topped the bill with a competition of school kids on a grass track and riding BMX bikes (happy to bend to modern day trends). One or two of our ex-riders built a 'pukka' starting gate. The meeting was totally organised by our ex-riders with a little help from our friends the local museum staff and Roundtable members and a good time was had by all.
As recorded in your previous articles, the VCRA were invited by way of Ron Johnson and six of the Vets from East Surrey and helped out with a display of their own memorabilia. This year, in April, we have decided to invite local National Servicemen along around the time our ex-riders left the sport to do their two year stint. We show old film of cycle speedway and will be showing a part of the 'Virgin Soldiers' especially for the ex squaddies.
The South-West Surrey League produced some excellent riders, some of them riding in the Thames Valley League that would have such riders as Rob Hunt who captained the Walton Swans, winning the 'News Chronicle' individual and the team event. Rob only dropped one point over the two events.
I remember going to Earls Court and watching Holland beat England in the last heat and I am privileged to have met on several occasions and recorded the captain of Holland 'Henk de Bruin' time in the sport. I have produced a newsletter each year just previous to our reunions. All of our riders receive one. I have about two hundred photos and recently received my old Cranleigh Eagles helmet that I last wore in 1953. It was sent from Australia by a team mate who went to Australia in the late Fifties. The helmet is a bit battered and sits like a pimple on my head.
I have also a good deal of memorabilia including copy of the 1950 souvenir programme of the England v Holland match also an original of the Amateur Cycle Speedway 1950; both include details of both the International and The News Chronicle National team final between Chorlton Aces and Gem Pirates 277 teams tried to win this title that year.
I have over the past seven years produced detailed 'sketchbooks' providing short history accounts of cycle speedway in South West Surrey with plenty of photos throughout. This book and several others had a popular appeal and was sold to the public through the local museum at Godalming.
Note- the picture on the front of the Godaming Bury's Field event that I came across whilst scrolling through your website is the programme which I produced and was fortunate enough to include the Dutch champion on the front cover 'Henk de Bruin' at the age of fifteen. Henk, being an apprentice panel beater, designed the track bike shown.
Thanks for listening
Arthur Bird
Editor's Note - We never tire of hearing about the old days, so much so that we have pursuaded Arthur to share his thoughts and memories of that day in 1950 when 5,000 spectatorsa watched the England v Holland international and the News Chronicle national team final at Earls Court, London. It promises to be pure nostalgia!
FOUR LAP FEVER - posted 20 February 2010
Just a few lines to say how sad I was to hear that Gerry Wallis had passed away...a fine competitor. I raced Gerry many many times through the years and will always remember the day he spoilt my maximum at Morden in the 1966 Home Counties Divison Two team final!
I have been in contact with a local historian here in Burnham-on-Crouch who has given me some rare photos of local teams (and a 1951 riders licence). I would love to know more about these teams and riders so could your readers help out? You can check all this and more at myspace.com/fourlapfever.
On my music side of things, if you log in to myspace.com/hoffmanstrip, you can see a video that I play on as a session musican and plus I get a name check as well!!!!
Please enjoy the photos I have included....all the best.
Dave Tulloch
Editor's Note - Congratulations on your website Dave. Lots of great stuff and memories and a nice mix of photos and memorabilia.
Baddow Hornets
Burnham jets and Southminster Pirates
Latchington
Unknown Action
RECALLING SAINT HILLIER SAINTS - posted 17 February 2010
Dear Ed - Looked through your site for some old pics and memories.
Thought you might like one of mine. The pic was taken on 14 May 1954 at Ruskin Park, Carshalton, Surrey. We were the Saint Hillier Saints and used to race at the rubber dump at Mitcham. Other teams included Tooting Tigers and Beddington Lions but others escape my memory.
I'm 69 now but I do remember cutting two inches out of the down tube and banging the saddle stem down to join it up again and putting a couple of bolts through to hold it. Not many dads had an electric drill then. I remember sitting there for hours with my dad's hand drill and my mates taking turns.
I had a nice big cup and when I moved to Spain more than ten years ago, I gave it to a team in Raynes Park. Hope you find photo interesting. I'm the big one on the right, age 14. The other guys are l to r Colin Newton, Colin Howe, Ted Polley and me Barry Hipkiss. Haven't seen them since about 1960.
Barry Hipkiss
Editor's Note - Many thanks for sending in this wonderful old photo Barry. Let's hope one of your former team mates sees it and makes contact after all these years. HAS CYCLE SPEEDWAY A FUTURE? - posted 24 January 2010
Following our recent article about 60 years of cycle speedway governance (see below), reader Nigel Hoggart sent us this splendid press cutting taken from the 1951 News Chronicle Boys' Book of All Sports. The report heralds the formation of the National Cycle Speedway Association (NACSA) at the inaugural meeting in London in 1950 (14 January). It makes fascinating reading.
SIXTIES MEMORY - posted 24 January 2010
Regular contributor Gerry Escott has recently received this photograph from former rider Ken Angel. It is believed the photo was taken during the Wales versus Surrey match at Cardiff on Sunday 28 May which resulted in a 40-54 victory for Surrey.
The Welsh team is (back row left to right) Wally Trevellyan, Tony Allsop, Ray Isidoro, Larry Playle, Billy Young and Kingsley Madden (front kneeling) Geoff DeCaux and Gerry Escott.
"I would be interested to hear from any of the Surrey riders who raced against Wales that day to confirm my thoughts" Gerry told Spokesman. "The Surrey team that day was Len Kitching, Glyn Brimson, Tony Johnson, Rob Hills, Roger Kirk, Dave Mercer, Chris Hunt and Mick Hosier."
60 YEARS OF GOVERNENCE - posted 14 January 2010
Saturday 14 January 1950 was a red-letter day in the history of the sport. Delegates from the various area control boards throughout the country gathered at the offices of the News Chronicle in Bouverie Street, London to form the National Amateur Cycle Speedway Association, or NACSA as it came to be known.
During the previous five years more than fifteen bodies had claimed true representation of cycle speedway. None, however, achieved nation-wide popularity as NACSA. It was a properly constituted body of non-paid officers and staff whose primary aim was to protect all riders from
any form of professionalism or exploitation and to organise national trophies, competitions and leagues. This was the first time that cycle speedway had operated under the guidance of a major body under a standard set of racing rules.
The principal objectives of the Association were to see the sport organised democratically by the riders for the riders; increase friendship between districts and counties; standardise rules of racing all over the country; see that the domestic affairs of district and county control boards are not interfered with; encourage good citizenship, reliability and team spirit among its members; organise national competitions; form a Board of stewards to control all important matches; see that riders are not exploited in any way; assist in negotiations for the laying down of permanent tracks at the request of district and county boards and generally to further the advancement of the sport.
The first executive committee was chairman - Bertram J G Duffield, joint secretary (technical) S E Kippin, joint secretary (administration) W (Bill) F Sonnex, treasurer J Bunker, press officer Norman H Guest, auditors E W Sloper and S Holmes, committee members A Athersuch
In 1958 the British Cycle Speedway Federation was formed and quickly established itself as a competitor to NACSA, primarily as a result of its showpiece competition, the English League. The two organisations continued in tandem until they were united by the formation of the Cycle Speedway Council on 12 December 1971. The Council continued to run the sport for the best part of 30 years until cycle speedway came under the umbrella of British Cycling on 1 January 2000.
TUDDENHAM MEMORIES - posted 5 December 2009
Britain's biggest circulation regional newspaper today (5 December) carried a superb article about cycle speedway.
The double page spread in the Eastern Daily Press, complete with seven pictures, three of them in full colour, reports on the recent reunion of Norfolk cycle speedway team, the Tuddenham Rangers.
The veteran riders, mostly in their late Seventies, gathered at the site of their old track at North Tuddenham common to unveil a special plaque commemorating club's history. Proudly displayed in a woodland clearing, the plaque reads "The site of the North Tuddenham cycle speedway track 1947-1953. Norfolk and East Anglian champions 1951-1952."
Unbelievably, more than 60 years on, the rusty starting gates and concrete starting grid can still be clearly seen.
The club's most successful rider was Les Perrett who mastermindded the reunion. Les started racing as a 12-year-old and went on to become runner-up in the 1952 national individual championship at Chiswick.
The article, written by staff reporters Ian Clarke and Derek James, is an evocative and nostalgic journey back to the earliest days of the sport. It's a great read.
SAD DAY AS EDITOR STANDS DOWN - posted 5 December 2009
Followers of veterans cycle speedway in Wales will be saddened by the demise of 'Welsh Veterans News' following the retirement of hard-working editor Gerry Escott.
Announcing his decision in the December editorial, Gerry opens by saying that the Christmas edition will be the last.
"I have decided to retire ftartrom editing the magazine, so this wil be the final edition" he told readers. "My original idea, after our reunion in October 2005, was to send out a 'newsletter' to keep everyone in touch. It has been hard work at times but in genral I have enjoyed doing it and it gave me the incentive to write my book.
"I thank those of you who have helped make it possible by sending me your stories, memories and pictures. I hope that the reunions will continue to be organised. It's been a while since we last had one."
Welsh Veterans News was a unique publication blending stories and results from yesterday with news of modern day cycle speedway in Newport, sprinkled with a joke page, a facinating Scrapbook section and the occasional piece of controversy. It will be sadly missed.
CALLING EX CRAWLEY AND MORDEN RIDERS - posted 16 November 2009
One of our readers, Alan Thompsett, is keen to learn more about the history of two famous South-East clubs, the Crawley Tigers and the Morden Stars - and wants to call on your help.
"I am interested in the history of cycle speedway at Crawley and Morden. From trawling the internet, your site seems to be the best and most authorative. Do you know of any links, photos etc where I can find information on these tracks" asked Alan.
Well, we don't have any personal knowledge about this history of either club, apart from having ridden there many times and breaking a wrist at Morden. But we are certain our wonderful readers wil be able to help.
If you have knowledge of either club or can point Alan in the right direction, please mail him at alananddianet@hotmail.co.uk. Over to you readers!
PRESENTATION PROGRAMMES - posted 15 August 2009
Former Bournemouth rider Tony Clarke has presented some of his personal cycle speedway memorabila to the Poole club for display in their clubhouse. Among the items is a programme from the 1960 World individual final held at Garratt Park London, together with a British League riders championship programme from 1969. Tony has also donated a selection of black and white action
photos from the Sixties. All the items are expected to go on display shortly.
This is one the photos presented by Tony Clarke which will shortly be gracing the Poole clubroom wall. It shows action from the 12th British (League) Riders Championship final staged on Sunday 7 September 1969 on the famous tarmac track at Edmonton North London. The picture illustrates the distinctive and elegant style of Norwich Star Clive Hurrell but who are the other two riders he is competing against? One is from Tottenham Kangaroos and the other is from South London Rangers. It could be Pete Hooper and Kelvin Wilson but we are not sure. The eagle-eyed amongst you may spot Tuckswood Stars duo Sonny Garrett and Ray Bales watching the action from the pits. We hope to bring you more pics from yesteryear soon.
Update - The leading rider is Dave Collins and the rider at the back with glasses is the late Arthur Ellis. Our thanks to reader Vic Haines for filling in the gaps.
LANGSTONE MEMORIES - posted 13 July 2009 They may have only been in existence for just six years but Langstone Eagles will go down in cycle speedway history thanks to a new book produced by former members John Moore and his wife Beryl. The Welsh team only operated between 1951 and 1957 but the Langstone history graphically charts the club's formation, its successes and the obvious fun everyone had in those days.
Packed with wonderful photographs, press cuttings and reflections of club life, the book oozes nostalgia on every page. Perhaps the club is best summed up by the words on the penulitimate page "The five years that the club existed gave the people involved friendship, comradeship and the experience of working together as well as enjoying one another's company. Many of those friendship lasted a liftime, many remaining friends to this day".
LANGSTONE REUNION - 56 YEARS ON - posted 29 May 2009
After nearly four months of research, Beryl and John Moore finally completed the History of Langstone Eagles Cycle Speedway 1951-1957.
At a previous get together in January of several old members, arrangements were made to hold a reunion at the Langstone Village Hall, where the Eagles used to meet for their entertainment evenings after matches. Beryl and John continued with collecting history and photographs, whilst others tried to make contact with other old members, a difficult task 56 years on.
On the 22 May the reunion took place with 25 members and guests who had an enjoyable reunion where copies of the History book were presented. Time was taken to remember the riders who had past away. Brian Thomas, John Richards, Ron Evans, Trevor (Honkey) Jones and Pat Dowsel.
The guests included members of Langstone Community Council, representatives of the two current Newport Cycle speedway clubs led by Rob Absalom and Collin Simmons. The Eagles members Ray Fradd, John (Oscar) Morse, Allan Daniels, Keith Dodds, Lolo Bonici, John Moore together with the girls Beryl Moore, Carol Fradd, Hazel Bennet, Val Steddar including Trevor Jones wife Gail and son Paul they made welcome Ray Isidoro and his wife, Jeff Lloyd from Cardiff together with Thompson Tigers Robin Pennell. We are still searching for several old riders such as Colin Dunn and Alan Gill.
Being back at Langstone Hall brought back many memories. Unfortunately some were unable to join us because of the bank holiday. The book will revive the memories of those who were young in the Fifties who appreciated what the senior members of the community did for them.
LONG EATON REUNION - posted 13 April 2009
Riders from yesteryear turned back the clock to recall the wonderful days of Long Eaton cycle speedway club at a special reunion on Saturday evening. Some former 24 members gathered at a local pub to recall famous victories and races won - and after a sherbert or two, there was even talk of reviving the team for an assault on the national veterans club championship!
Leading referee and former Long Eaton kingpin Ralph Doughty picks up the story.
"There was a good turnout of 20 to 24 ex-riders who turned up to exchange old photos and memories etc. Some people were unable to attend and sadly some had passed on - and yes - after one or two orange juices, there was talk of putting a team out in the Vets team champs but I'm sure when they sober up, reality will kick in!
"Hopefully the reunion will be a regular event but I can't see a revival of the sport in the area - although though were promises that several ex-riders will be attending this year's British Finals at Leicester. We will see" added Doughty.
Editor's Note - We hope to bring you more news of the Long Eaton reunion and hopefully a few pics from the evening.
LANGSTONE APPEAL - posted 19 March 2009
Former members of the Welsh club, Langstone Eagles, are desparately seeking information about the club's history stretching back to the early Fifties. Club stalwart John Moore explained.
"Langstone Eagles are currently preparing the history of the club between 1951 and 1957. We recall riding
against many English teams including Tulse Hill Rockets, Whipps Cross Comets, Verney Lions, Hungerford
Panthers and many more. At that time not many of our members had cameras. Probably we could not afford them, Is there any one out there or members of the teams we raced against who may have photos or information? We would be eager to hear from you.
"Three of our riders took part in the famous Manchester Grand Prix at Carrs Wood track - John Richards in 1954, Ray Fradd and Trevor Jones 1955, Trevor Jones 1956. We have a programme for 1954, so we are looking for programmes and photos or any information for 1955-56. The attached photo was taken at Manchester in 1955. It may jog a few memories.
"May I add since my first contact with Spokesman in November 2008, things have really snowballed, so many thanks for your support" added John.
Editor's Note - If you have any memorabilia or information relating to Langstone Eagles, why not drop John Moore a line at johnfredrickmoore@mac.com
SUCCESSFUL REUNION - posted 29 January 2009
A grainy black and white photo and an article in the local paper has led to a remarkable cycle speedway reunion.
Former Langstone Eagle and founder member John Moore submitted the copy to the South Wales Argus. On 15 January the paper published the report in its sports column on 15 January and the response was simply amazing. Several former Langstone and Thompson Tigers riders from the early 1950s contacted John and a reunion meeting was held at the home of Ray Fradd, another of the Langstone founder emmbers and brother-in-law of John Moore on Tuesday evening (27 January). In addition to John and Ray, several other ex-riders attended the meeting including Oscar Morse, Alan Daniels (both ex Langstone), Lawrence Bonnice, Laurie Jones and Robin Pennell (Thompson Tigers) and family of the late Ron Evans
(Langstone), brother Brian, son Wayne and grandson Ryan. Also invited were Jeff Lloyd (ex Cardiff Hammers 1955), Colin Simmons and Gerry Escott (Grange Dragons 1954).
Several of the vets brought along photographs and information which they allowed Escott to borrow, to use in his book, A History of Welsh Cycle Speedway.
"One particular photograph was of personal interest to me" said Escott. "A team photo of Grange Dragons at the Marl, Grangetown versus Thompson Tigers in 1954."
The ex-Langstone and Thompson Tigers veterans are going to arrange another reunion when they hope the turnout will be even bigger.
LOOKING BACK TO 1985 - posted 24 January 2009
With the start of the 2009 Tour to Australia just over a fortnight away, avid reader Martin Jarvis has sent us this wonderful team photo that graced the front page of Spokesman 37. The British squad look resplendant in their distinctive red, white and blue British Airways race clothing. Not surpringly after a gap of close on 25 years, none of the riders featured on the back row have any involvement in the sport, save Martin who still helps out at East London and runs the club's website. But all of the front row, complete with dark hair (and in some instances hair!) are still actively involved in the sport. Great pic Martin - thanks for sending it. We hope to include the corresponding 2009 photo online soon.
EUROVETS SET TO GO GLOBAL - posted 13 December 2008
After a successful fourth campaign, the Eurovets GP Series for 2009 is set to expand even more with the promise of a further intake of over 40-year-olds joining the ranks and may now comprise of eight rounds starting in February by including the results of the World Veterans Final at Adelaide in Australia to count towards the final scores (best six performances from eight rounds qualify).
A return visit to Rawicz in Poland in May on the weekend of the World Speedway GP at Leszno plus six rounds in the UK sandwiched around the three British Cycling Cycle Speedway events which have already been confirmed will complete the series which has three classes (over 40’s, 50’s and 60’s) and attracted 39 riders last year. Also to add interest to the Home Nations International at Edinburgh on 13 June, a similar Veterans team event has been considered as a support meeting instead of a GP round.
Full details of proposed events, dates and venues will appear shortly on the Eurovets Website
Our Scrapbook picture features 1970 national team champions, Blackley Flyers from Manchester.
Back Row Left to Right
John Watchman, Mike Berry, Stuart Broadfield, John Whiting, Graham 'Josh' Gleave
Front Row Left to Right
Steve Berry, Kevin Greenhalgh, Dave Wilson.
Our thanks to Dave Wilson for sending in this wonderful photo from yesteryear.
DEBUTANT HARRIS WINS AT FILTON ROUND OF EUROVETS - posted 15 July 2008
Recent newcomer to the "Over 40s Club", Horspath's former World champion and British Lions captain Steve Harris, won round four of the 2008 Eurovets GP at Filton. Despite dropping a point to double British Vets champion Ian Lawrence (Filton), he overcame defending champion Norman Venson (Leicester), leading over-50's participant Mick Aris (Wednesfield) and Ian Lawrence in the "A" final held in very hot and blustery conditions at the Bristol venue.
Lawrence triumphed in the over-50's final whilst evergreen Roger Ellis (Wednesfield) won the Grand Vets (over-60's) prize. Scotland's Euan Tulloch refereed. Most of the full field then travelled onto Cardiff for the Speedway GP at night.
For full details of results, series standings and dates of future rounds log onto www.freewebs.com/eurovets.
GODALMING - A NEW BEGINNING OR SIMPLY NOSTALGIA? - posted 12 June 2008
Our contributor Alan Harvey was on hand at Godalming last weekend to witness the re-birth of cycle speedway in the town. Judging by all accounts, the event proved a resounding success - and could pave the way for the re-emergence of Godalming cycle speedway club. Alan picks up the story.
Blooming June, a fine sunny day in Godalming, the venue Bury Field in the centre of Godalming.
A static display at the museum was one thing, arriving at the venue was another, altogether. A cycle speedway track, complete with rising gates has been marked out and installed and a crowd of several thousand crammed the ropes as racing got underway - the enthusiasm of the PA announcer galvanising interest.
The track centre showed cycle speedway bikes, and leathers from the halcyon period, 1948- 1953 as seven heats were run off amidst great interest from the crowd. Forget the fact that the teenage newcomers were riding BMX bikes, overlook that it was on grass and take note that a quote from Ron Johnson later...'If you had seen the practice session for this event last night you would not have thought this was possible' - then the event must be scored a success.
Talking to members of the Veteran Cycle Speedway Riders Association, afterward the general feeling was that it was a success, with many youngster expressing an interest in the formation of a new club.
Where does all this leave us? Was this no more than a nostalgic journey, back 50 years ago, when South West Surrey alone boasted 12 clubs, and local club racing was vibrant? Or could it mean a a new beginning?
My impression is that interest was renewed, memories, recollections were awakened. That said, this interest could only find root in a local league, Road travel, weekly, to far flung places, at increasing costs would inhibit a renewal, return to the good old days! Individual events meanwhile could well help in swelling membership.
Much is in the hands of a dedicated band of enthusiasts, determined to build on a 50 year heritage.
The Saxon settlement of Godalming, the name meaning "of the family or clan of Godhelm", was first recorded in the will of King Alfred the Great of Wessex, who died in AD 899. Godhelm and his people had undoubtedly selected this ideal site some two hundred years before Alfred's time, yet even today, twelve hundred years later, the inhabitants of the town are called "Godhelmians". William the Conqueror's Domesday/Doomsday Book of 1086 records a thriving community with three watermills. Later the number of mills in the area increased to eight and they played an important part in the industrial growth and prosperity of the town.
MUSEUM PIECE - posted 10 June 2008
One of our most avid readers, Alan Harvey, went along to Godalming Museum last weekend to take a look at a static cycle speedway exhibition which was being put on ahead of plans to revive the sport in the town. Alan picks up the story.
"I went along to Godalming museum this morning and took some pictures of the static exhibition of the cycle speedway memorabilia. The aim of the curator here is to 'Preserve our Memories'. The material on the stand kept me absorbed for more than an hour. Just think this era was over fifty years ago - and the sport is still around" said Alan excitedly.
"There were certainly 12 to 18 clubs in this part of Surrey at that time and many of the surviving riders still hold an annual re-union. You may care to publish one or more of the pictures on the website. I can send you others if you think it would appeal to your website visitors. In the meantime I plan to go along on Saturday afternoon, this so that I can take some more pictures and meet up with Ron Johnson and Derek Cattle."
Editors Comment - Thanks for your pics and report Alan. We'd love to see more of your pics and will be running more photos from the museum shortly.
STORMIN' NORMAN VICTORIOUS IN EUROVETS OPENER - posted 24 April 2008
Leicester's World Vets champion and defending title holder, Norman Venson, started convincingly in this season's opening round at Wolverhampton's East Park track on Saturday 19 April by top scoring and winning the main final from series debutant, Brummy Paul Timms, Filton's Paul Gibbs and local Wednesfield favourite Mick Aris. Full results and details of series on www.freewebs.com/eurovets. The next round is in Poland at Rawicz over weekend of 9-11 May.
GOOD TURN OUT AT VETS AGM - posted 8 March 2008
The Sun Inn at Waltham Abbey was packed for the annual general meeting of the Veterans Cycle Speedway Riders Association this afternoon.
Chairman Derek Cattle reviewed the 2007 social events. Highlight of the year was the 12th annual VCSRA dinner dance which was held at the Plough, Buphan in November with 103 diners sitting down to a splendid meal. The annual ramble, again arranged by Len Kitching, was another excellent day out as was the autumn golf day at Trent Park golf course, Southgate London. New member Dave Holvey won the trophy with a total of 34 points. The trip to the Cycle Speedway Museum at Paradise Wildlife Park, Hoddeson was another notable success.
Secretary Colin Booth announced that membership numbers were stable with 211 full members and 11 honorary members sigining up
during the year. The 2008 VCSRA handbook and directory will be published in April.
Treasurer Tom Kilby reported that the Association had made a small financial loss of £175 on the year. However finances remain bouyant. As a result the annual membership fee will remain at seven pounds again in 2008.
Bill Gadsby, editor of the Association's quarterly magazine 'Track Record' was congratulated on his efforts which attracted a spontanious round of applause from the packed audience.
Perhaps the biggest disappointment of the year was the last minute cancellation of the England v Poland international at Canning Town Rec. Several VCSRA members had been invited to attend the event and a good turn out was expected. Roy Delaney said he was also disappointed that the East London club couldn't fit the Bomb Site Trophy into their race calendar this year although it was hoped to hold the event at Canning Town later this year.
Members were told by co-ordinator Terry Stone that the display at the Cycle Speedway Museum had undergone a facelift with new displays.
A lively debate took place on how to attract more younger members. It was even suggested that the Association should drop
the 'Veterans' tag and chnage the name of the Association.
The Associatiion's new president is Stan Stevens (pictured left), a popular appointment as Stan was one of the three founding members when the VCSRA was formed 12 years ago.
The 2009 AGM may be held in conjunction with the annual dinner and dance which would allow more members to attend the meeting.
Hull CSC have set up two dedicated websites featuring the history of the sport in and around Humberside.
One covers the sport from the 1940's to 1978, in particular 1971 to 1978 (the life of the Humberside League) and this can be found at www.freewebs.com/historycscinhull/. The second site follows the history of the Hull club from 1979 to date, although there is still a lot of work to be done on this one. Take a look at www.freewebs.com/cschull/
SPOT THE RIDERS - posted 7 February 2008
This grainy but superb picture was taken at the 1965 Midland Youth Championship at Perry Hall, Birmingham. Recognise anyone?
Well look closer - the photo shows (left to right)
winner Roger Ellis (Wolverhampton), runner-up Wilson Burns (Leicester) third Ivor Walsh (Kingstanding).
Do you have any old pics? If so please email them to us for our new fun page coming soon - 'The Way We Were'.
SPORT TO RETURN TO GLASGOW? – posted 13 December 2007
2008 will be the 60th anniversary of the first individual cycle speedway event to be staged in Glasgow.To celebrate this historic milestone and to kick start the sport again in Glasgow, the Glasgow Cycle Speedway History Association in conjunction with the Edinburgh Falcons are currently planning a historic 60th anniversary individual meeting to be staged next year.
The Myrtle Street track has seen little action over the last few years but a concerted effort is now underway to secure the required manpower and funding to bring everything up to scratch.
Former cycle speedway and motor speedway star Jack “Red” Monteith, who was involved in the original staging of what was known as the Glasgow Olympic, has been instrumental in marking this memorable occasion.
The Edinburgh Falcons would also be keen to hear from anyone who would be able to supply copies of any photos they may have from the various Glasgow and Edinburgh tracks from yesteryear to help with setting up a promotional pack for this event in 2008.
Anyone who can help please contact Tommy Lee on 07903 542 232 07903 542 232 or email at fredeismagic@hotmail.com
HULL VETS JOIN ASSOCIATION – posted 13 December 2007
Four members of the Hull club have now joined the Veteran Cycle Speedway Riders Association (VCSRA) and will hopefully be able to contribute to the association’s excellent magazine, Track Record, at some stage in the future.
BLACKLEY REUNION– posted 10 December 2007
The annual Blackley reunion took place last Saturday at the Shambles in Manchester.
Despite the awful weather, a good turnout of former riders took place. John Watchman brought some old photos (he was leading in everyone).What they did show was how tracks have improved over the years, especially the surfaces. Tracks like Gorton, Leicester, Glasgow, even the great Blackley track looked difficult, slippy and rutted.No comments on the Medlock track.
Along with John, were Mike and Steve Berry, KevinGreenhalgh, John Higham, Darren Salthouse, Stuart Broadfield, Kev Brennan, Gary Hollingsworth, the inevitable star Josh Gleave, Les Bowden, Steve Davidson, the adopted Nozzer Briggs and John Whiting. Not a bad team really was it.
The event started after the sad loss of Steve Crook in 1990 and continues to flourish, one or two unable to make it due to other commitments. As ever a few drinks and much reminiscing, and hot debate, whilst also trying to convince Watchman he wasn't as good as he thought he was.
it all was Arthur Bird. Now 60 years on, Arthur recalls the day, exclusively for spokesman-online readers. 
"Although our Dutch tarmac tracks back in Holland could be likened to riding on boards and would serve us well. Many of our tracks had sharp bends and shale surfaces allowing us to broadside early in to the bend and with our long straights the speed would take us all the way round the bend. The Empress Hall with wider bends and without a loose surface would need some getting used to. The short practise spell would show just how slippery the boards were and I finished up scraping the skin off my knee. On the positive side we still found that the boards allowed us to slide right round the bend." 
INTS - posted 17 February 2010
A grainy black and white photo and an article in the local paper has led to a remarkable cycle speedway reunion. 
NNING OR SIMPLY NOSTALGIA? - posted 12 June 2008
a new club.
One of our most avid readers, Alan Harvey, went along to Godalming Museum last weekend to take a look at a static cycle speedway exhibition which was being put on ahead of plans to revive the sport in the town. Alan picks up the story.
