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Reg Fearman
Part 8 |
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Stoke's 80th Birthday
The Speedway Farm
Swedes in the Aussie Sun (Ouch!)
Coronavirus Lockdown Diversion
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The Vincent Vampire
Billy Lamont
The Old Wreck (?an AJS?)
Morian Hansen
Ken Le Breton
The Soviets Olle Nygren
The Morans
Aub Lawson (Reg's Mentor) |
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Reg at a Grass Track Event |
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Dave Norcott's Van and Trailer |
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Reg says: Eileen and I went to a Grass Track meeting last
Sunday, Peter Collins is the President. A number of machines
were on display, the Jawa is an ex Peter Collins World Final
machine and the one he used against Anders Michanek in the
historic match race for the Belle Vue v Reading KO cup final in
the 1970s, Anders was on Bernie Leigh's machine and Peter had a
hand injury which meant he had his clutch lever on the same side
as his throttle -twist grip - the lead changed many times with
Peter winning by a fraction. The trailer with the 'very special
number plate is owned by Peter's cousin Dave Norcott along with
several speedway machines including the ones in the photos.
Cheers Reg
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Reg's Lockdown Diversion |
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Reg has been "entertaining the
troops" during the Coronavirus Lockdowns by sending us his old
photos. If anyone can add any comments about his old pics
please send me an email
John |
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West Ham Pits |
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1937 |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: I am pleased to share a few old photos with you.
A chance to look at old photos while in 'Coronavirus Lockdown'.
It is getting much worse in the UK.
Being in "Lockdown" I have had a rummage through a few old
photos that may be of interest to you.
Reg's first photo is shown above.
Here is an old photo for you. Who is The Hat?
West Ham Speedway Team 1937? Phil Bishop, Arthur
Atkinson, Jimmy Gibb, The Hat?, Bluey Wilkinson, Tommy
Croombs, Eric Chitty, Tiger Stevenson.
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West Ham |
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1937 |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: West Ham Team 1937 Taken At Belle Vue Eric Chitty Tommy
Croombs Arthur Atkinson Phil Bishop Johnnie Hoskins Alex Moseley
Mechanic Tiger Stevenson on Machine Broncho Dixon Bluey Wilkinson
Charlie Spinks |
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West Ham |
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1950 |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: West Ham 1950 Taken At West Ham Arthur Atkinson Fred
Curtis Trevor Davies Malcolm Craven Lloyd Goffe Eric Chitty on
Machine Note His Footrest Guard Wally Green Howdy Byford Reg Fearman
Aub Lawson Ted Argall Stan Greatrex |
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Honor Blackman at West Ham |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: Howdy Byford Honor Blackman Aub Lawson.
At West Ham Speedway - publicity shot.
Speedway 1950 riders and Celeb - Howdy Byford and Aub Lawson
with Honor Blackman born in West Ham in 1925 Actress as Pussey
Galore I like that name!! in Goldfinger also in The Avengers.
She passed on in 2020 aged 94 - Note the Tarmac start area.
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Honor Blackman was an English actress, widely known for the
roles of Cathy Gale in The Avengers, Bond girl Pussy Galore in
Goldfinger, Julia Daggett in Shalako and Hera in Jason and the
Argonauts. She is also known for her role as Laura West in the ITV
sitcom The Upper Hand. |
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Dennis Price at West Ham |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: Tippie Arthur Atkinson Dennis Price Aub Lawson
West Ham Speedway Tippy Atkinson Celeb Actor Dennis Price
Arthur Atkinson Aub Lawson 1949.
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Dennistoun Franklyn John
Rose Price was an English actor,
best remembered for his role as Louis Mazzini in the film Kind
Hearts and Coronets and for his portrayal of the omniscient valet
Jeeves in 1960s television adaptations of P. G. Wodehouse's stories. |
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Aub Lawson
Keeping Rosemary
Entertained! |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: Freddie Williams Aub Lawson Ron Clarke Graham Warren
Late 1940s On Board??
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Reg at Stoke 1951 |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Belle Vue |
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1934 |
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The Daily Mail Trophy |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: Belle Vue Team at Wembley in 1933 Max Grosskreutz Joe
Abbott Eric Langton Eric Gregory Frank Varey with the Daily Mail
Trophy Bill Kitchen. Names To Conjure With.
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Gerry Hussey Ove Fundin
& Aub Lawson |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Fred Williams Bert Harkins & Terry Stone |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Australian
Test Team |
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1950 |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Billy Lamont & Sir Malcolm Campbell |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: Three rare photos of the 1930s 'Cyclone' Billy (real
name Wilfred) Lamont and Sir Donald Campbell the land and water
speed record holder with 'Bluebird'. Donald Junior himself a
record breaker lost his life on Lake Coniston in 1964 attempting
the water speed record. I met Billy Lamont in 1950 at 'Billy
The Pigs' pub in Bondi.
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John says: Slight mistake there Reg. The gent with Billy is
Sir Malcolm Campbell, Donald's father |
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Billy Lamont & Vic Huxley |
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Reg says: Below Billy Lamont and Vic Huxley. An all action photo. |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Billy Lamont on his AJS |
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Courtesy of John Spoor |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: Wherever you are we hope you are well.
Cyclone Billy Lamont 1930 in later life he owned a pub at Bondi in
Sydney
affectionately known as 'Billy the Pigs' many of the speedway
stars of the 1940s and 1950s would gather there. Take note of the
machine and dropped handlebars.
The photo was taken at Thrum Hall Speedway Halifax in 1930
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Australia Bound |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: On board and bound for Australia 1953 Ken McKinley left
front with hair, Jackie Gates next to Ken, Cliff Watson centre with
the 'loud jumper', extreme right Lionel Levy, front second from left
Harold Bull, middle Chum Taylor next to him Janet Geddes/Geran.
I recognise some faces but can't recall the names.
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Dicky Smythe |
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Reg says: An early photo of Dicky Smythe.
Note the open valve springs on the early Wallis J.A.P. and the
dropped handlebars. Dicky an Australian started racing in 1923. |
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Touring Party |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: Still in 'coronavirus lockdown' - I hope you
don't mind me sharing these photos with you.
Now, the 'Team Photo' on board ship is a real test and a poser.
I can name but three, back row third from the right Wally Lloyd,
second from right Cliff Parkinson. Front row extreme right is
Bluey Wilkinson and next to him Eric Langton. Extreme left back
row could be Frank Arthur.
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John says: 4th from the left is Gordon Byers |
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Vic Huxley and Laura Elder |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: This photo has been named as Vic Huxley and Laura
Elder the wife of 'Sprouts' the machine looks like a Douglas
which puts the photo somewhere between 1928 and 1930.
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Happy Couples |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg Fearman says: No prizes for recognising the two happy
couples, all four still going strong. Eric Boothroyd now 93
with Bonnie and Reg Duval also 93 with Norma. The Boothroyd's
still living in Halifax and the Duval's on the South Coast at
Highcliffe.
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HRD Vincent |
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The Vampire |
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Vincent Motorcycles,
"the makers of the world's fastest
motorcycles",
began with the purchase of
HRD
Motors Ltd less the factory premises, by Philip
Vincent
in May 1928.
HRD was
founded by the British Royal Flying Corps (RFC)
pilot, Howard Raymond
Davies, who was shot down and
captured by the Germans in 1917.
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The Moseley Vincent "Vampire" |
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The "Vampire" was introduced by mechanical "supremo" Alec
Moseley during his time at West Ham and was the result of three
years of scheming and planning, eventually making its debut in
September 1947. |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Malcolm Craven at West Ham not sure if he is on the H.R.D. |
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Reg says: Good morning from 'lockdown' country' and a wet, misty
and damp Sunday morning 14c and too warm.
I found this photo on the web of a very rare speedway machine.
The frame I believe was made by Alec Moseley, an engineer and
mechanic in speedway racing before and after WW11. Alec was
based at West Ham Speedway pre war and in the late 1940s and
1950s, he was involved with H.R.D. Vincent who were keen to
break into speedway racing. Malcolm Craven was sponsored by
H.R.D. for the season - I well remember seeing him race the
Copper and Crome machine at Custom House - evidently the
maintenance for the season was minimal, but, isn't there always
a but? it was very expensive and therefore never took off. The
photo is not of good quality but I am sure you will see the
difference between it and the J.A.P. The H.R.D. road
motorcycles are now collectors pieces commanding thousands of
pounds Cheers, Reg
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John says: I think the Vampire could have been the salvation of the
Vincent company. Had the company fixed a competitive price for
their engines, they may have sold enough to stave off closing down.
It would have been great for the British Motorcycle Industry and for
speedway if we had been watching Vincents, Royal Enfields,
Velocettes etc doing battle with the mighty JAPs. |
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Ken Le Breton |
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Reg Fearman says: Good morning to you all from 'lockdown'
England with another four weeks in almost total isolation. Reg.
Another look
back on speedway photos of the past, this one of Ken Le Breton
who had a brilliant future forecast for him in the World of
Speedway Racing - cut so short by his fateful crash at the
Sydney Sportsground.
Ken Le
Breton Born Sydney 15 August 1924 died Sydney 6 January 1951
aged 26 years.
Ken served with the Australian Army in WW11 and was posted to
New Guinea.
He took up speedway racing in 1946 and came to England in 1947
and raced for Newcastle and Glasgow.
It will be
70 years ago in January when Ken lost his life at the Sydney
Sportsground. It was the last race of the Second Test Match,
Australia v British Lions. It was the second fatal crash that I
had witnessed as a 17 year old, I was standing on the center
green with Jack Parker. The first fatality was in July 1950 at
Bradford when Joe Abbott had a fatal collision with the wooden
safety fence.
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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British Team for Australian Test |
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1950/51 |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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The British Lions for the test series 1950-1951 Derek Tailby, Reg
Fearman, Eddie Rigg, Bob Fletcher, Fred Yates and kneeling Eric
Williams, Jack Parker & Tommy Miller |
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Australian Team for 2nd Test |
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1950/51 |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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The Australian team, relaxing before the test match. D Seers,
Lionel van Praag, Keith Ryan, Ken Le Breton & Jackie Gates. Eddie
Rigg and Ken Le Breton were having a battle for third place. Ken
crashed and lost his life.
This photo was taken that fateful night on 5th January 1951 |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Ken's funeral cortege in his home town Sydney |
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Zenon Plech |
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Reg says: Just heard from Len Silver that Zenon Plech aged 67
has passed on to meet a lot old pals in the hereafter. Zenon was
a stalwart at Hackney for several years and one of the best to
come out of Poland. His brilliant International career and
achievements are too long to list here.
Reg
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Zenon Plech (1 January 1953 – 25 November 2020) |
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The Old Wreck! |
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A Racer Seen Better Days |
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If anyone can say what the bike is and who may have owned it then
please send me an email
John |
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Courtesy of John Spoor |
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John Skinner says: The old "wreck" shares some features with
the AJS shown above. I think it is an AJS but not necessarily
the same model as number 410. |
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Post War Attendances |
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Reg says: Good morning all,
Here we are still firmly in 'lockdown' until we get the 'pill' -
until then life is far from normal.
Just a few eye watering statistics regarding speedway attendances
after WW11.
Everybody had been sport starved for some six years.
Remember there was 48% Entertainment Tax on Speedway Racing.
1946 6,623,587. err yes, that
is six million!
1947 9,238,660.
1948 10,694,361.
In 1949 I raced at Wembley in front of 63,000 speedway
fans. There are others around, I am sure, who raced in
front of even more supporters. The 63,000 was Wembley's normal.
Cheers Reg.
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1954 Trip To Australia |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: Not a very good reproduction photo so I will name
those that I can. The group were on the 'Oronsay' on their way
to Australia in late October 1954. L.to R. Reg Fearman,
Malcolm Douglas, Brian McKeown, ? ? Ulf Ericsson, Pop
Fearman, Ove Fundin, Goran Norlean, Front row: Mrs Sally
Fearman, Janet Geddes later Janet Geran, Joan Fearman, Hugh
Geddes. The Swedes were contracted to race in Perth W.A.
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Aboard The Oronsay |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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15,000 at Stoke |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: This photo shows what was known
as 'Scotsman Hill' an old Colliery tip where people could get a free
view.
Much later it was brought to
ground
level and 'Tesco's
in Hanley S.O.Trent built a super store upon it.
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Morian Hansen |
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Reg says: Good morning all, Here we are - now in Tier 3 and
still in 'lockdown' - looking forward to the 'pill'. Another
rider from yesteryear. First of the Danes? A Danish WW11
hero.
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Jens Henning Fisker Hansen
DFC GM
(Born: 10 January 1905 in Frederikssund, Denmark – Died: 21 February
1995), known popularly as Morian Hansen, who rode in the
first ever Speedway World Championship Final in 1936
Hansen's first speedway races were at Copenhagen in 1928. He
first rode in the UK for the West Ham Hammers in 1931 on a two-month
permit, returning two years later. He joined the Hackney Wick Wolves
in 1935. He then moved onto Bristol and Wembley before the
outbreak of World War 2. He competed in the World
Championship finals in 1936 and 1937.
Hansen had held a pilot's licence since 1935 and served in the
Royal Air Force during WWII, rising to the rank of Squadron Leader.
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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When WW 11 broke out he joined the RAF and served 1939 to 1945,
as a Squadron Leader, he was awarded
The D.F.C., The George Medal, The 1935-1945 Star, The Burma
Star, plus other awards.
Morian was President of the VSRA in 1979. His farewell
race meetings were in Denmark in August 1953, he was aged 48.
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Morian riding somewhere in England and a picture of him taken in
1980 |
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Old Timers |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: Good Morning All,
We are still in 'lockdown' in
Staffordshire, we are now in what they call Tier 3 where the
rules are more stringent. The antidote for the virus has
arrived and 80 year old plus folk will get the first crack after
the NHS and the people in care homes.
An old photo of three very successful speedway riders in their
day
Vic Huxley died 1982 age 76 and Dickie Case died 1980 aged 70
both from Queensland Australia and Ray Tauser Portland USA died
1981 aged 74. Early years probably 1932, note the dropped
handlebars with maybe an advance and retard lever, two machines
have the exhaust pipe on the left side, all three upright
engines. Note the thick left knee pad. Just before WW11 Dickie
Case bought and went on to own the pub at Rye House and the
original training track that produced many riders in the 1940s
and 1950s, he died in Queensland.
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John says: I have "blown up" the fuel tank area of the 3 machines
(see below) |
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Courtesy of John Skinner |
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If we can believe what we are seeing here. Huxley and Case are
mounted on JAPs and Tauser is on a Rudge which explains his exhaust
pipe on the left side. Although I am reasonably certain the
photo features 2 JAPs and a Rudge it is possible that the tank
badges are mis-leading us, engine swapovers were as common in the
early 30s as they are today |
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Nottingham 1929 |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: This group were taken at
Nottingham Speedway in 1929. The only one I recognise is one of the
Milnes Brothers either Jack or Cordy in the hat.
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John says: When I first set eyes on this photo I thought the
guy in the cap was Sprouts Elder, then I read Reg's caption saying
he thought it was one of the Milne brothers. Like Reg I cannot
name any of the others in the photograph. If you can help with
names please email me
John |
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Wembley 1932 |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: This photo of 1932 does not name the
first rider on the left many of the other named riders were well
known well after WW2 and Alec Jackson of Wembley
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John says: I paid Gordon Byers a home visit when he was in his
80s and then Escorted him to Newcastle Speedways 85th anniverary
meeting at Brough Park. He was a cheerful chap with stories to
tell. He told me of the fantastic earnings the top riders
made. He was still very proud to tell me that he was chosen as
an England International and went to Australia/NZ as a member of the
1932/33 England Test Tourists side. |
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Gordon died 2008 he was 97 years old. When he was 17 yrs old he won
the first ever race staged at Newcastle's Brough Park Stadium. |
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The Lockdown
Continues |
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Reg says: Here we are January 2021 and still in 'lockdown' - it
doesn't seem to get any better except Eileen and I have had our
first anti virus Pfizer jab against coronavirus, the second one
sometime when? The pics continue below: -
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Geoff Mardon
at Jamaica Inn |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: Geoff Mardon (1927-2015) of New Zealand Outside the
Jamaica Inn Launceston Cornwall in 1951 Alfred Hitchcock Made
Thriller Film in 1939 Jamaica Inn - Built 1750. Geoff's career in
England Was Short 1951-1954 Tempted Back in 1959 With Southampton
Geoff Qualified for Wembley World Finals in 1951 1953 1954 and 1959
His Best 3rd in 1953. Note How To Transport Speedway Machines In The
Early 1950s On His Way To St Austell. |
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Courtesy of John Spoor |
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1953 World Championship |
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Top 3 |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: Wembley World Final 1953 left to right, Geoff Mardon,
Split Waterman and Freddie Williams |
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The Moore's & The Mardons |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg Fearman says: A Family Photo: Ronnie Moore, His Mum
Clarice, R.F. Geoff and Val Mardon. Val Daughter of Clarice and
Sister of Ronnie. |
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Pre-War West Ham |
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Reg says: From Tier 3 in 'lockdown' - the coronavirus is getting
no better in the UK, in fact much worse now with so much of the
country in 'lockdown', 60,000 have died and there are now 2
million cases. Be careful, beware - wherever you are.
Another couple of old newspaper photos from about 1932 - more to
follow later.
Below Fred Mockford New Cross and Johnnie Hoskins West Ham.
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: The names are under the photo, easily picked out are Tommy
Croombs, George Saunders, Bluey Wilkinson, Tiger Stevenson, Alex
Moseley. Victor Martin of the company with the same name traded in
everything speedway, J.A.P. engines and complete machines in
Tottenham until about the late 1960s. |
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Tommy Croombs & Daughter Josie |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: Tommy Croombs West Ham 1939 with his daughter Josie in the
pits at Harringay |
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Jack Parker & Ray Tauser |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg
says: Jack Parker and Ray Tauser at Lea Bridge 1928? Note the
dropped handlebars! The Engines being used are a mystery - Before
Douglas and JAP |
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Max Rech (Poland) |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: More from Tier 3 'lockdown Britain', er! getting
worse.
Here is a speedway rider whose career was cut extremely short.
Max Rech came to England in 1939 at the outbreak of WW 11. He
was a Polish fighter pilot, and war ace who settled in Cornwall
after World War 11. Max first witnessed speedwa y in the UK and
never raced in Poland. He raced at Liverpool and for St
Austell, he retired with serious injury after just two seasons
1952 and 1953, he continued to live in Cornwall. Allan Quinn who
also raced at St Austell remembers him well - Allan is now about
93 and in good health living in a Sydney suburb.
Cheers and waiting for the 'jab'.
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Reg in NZ |
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Good afternoon John, Just been looking at the web site, it just
keeps growing and is super to look at in 'lockdown'.
The last photo on the list you have added from me is Joe Hicks
he raced for Ian at one of the tracks in Scotland - a long time
ago. He lives in New Plymouth and is a frequent visitor to Ian
who is now 96. Ian is in a Nursing Home in New Plymouth. The
others include Giffy smiling, Ian and Me.
Merry Christmas to you and the family.
Cheers,
Reg  |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Dave Gifford, Joe Hicks, Ian Hoskins and Reg Fearman |
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Mid 1930s
Test Match |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: Charlie Spinks, Arthur Atkinson and Lionel van Praag.
Test Match mid 1930s. Lionel of course, was the first
Official World Champion in 1936 and Arthur Atkinson went on to
promote speedway at West Ham after
WW 11. Charlie started
his career in the early 1920s in Australia
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Lionel Wills & Jack Barnett |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: Lionel Wills who discovered Speedway in Australia when on
a business trip to Australia - his family were big
importers/exporters to Australia late 1880s and 1900s - Lionel
brought the sport to Britain, he is with Jack Barnett one of the
British Pioneers at High Beech in 1928. Jack was secretary of the
VSRA in 1968. Lionel went on to race speedway at Sydney and in
England. Plenty on the web about Lionel's input. |
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Dickie Case & Ray Tauser |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: Dickie Case and Ray Tauser at Crystal Palace circa 1930s |
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Alec Hunter & Jack Arnfield
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg Fearman says: Alec Hunter and Jack Arnfield Test Match in
Sydney 1950s, nice clean Black Leathers!
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Southampton 1931 |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: This photo is of the Southampton team of 1931 the only
one I can name is manager Jack Baxter with the tie and civvies.
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Australian Team 1952 |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg Fearman says: This is an easy one of the Australian Team of
1952 in Sydney. I believe Jack Biggs back of the head and Noel
Watson side face. Aub Lawson Jack Chignell Arthur Payne
Don Lawson Lionel Levy Junior Bainbridge - All in Immaculate
black leathers.
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Vic Huxley |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: This is obviously a shot taken at Practice Vic Huxley with
his goggles on his helmet and no goggles or gloves on the other chap
whose name is ? note the exhaust pipe near the left leg. The year
probably pre 1928 in Australia Vic was racing in 1926 at the
Brisbane Exhibition Ground. Vic Huxley born 1906 died 1982 was a
very successful speedway rider, in the 1930s he won the Star
Championship and British open Championship he retired in 1938 it is
recorded that he earned more than £5000 a year. |
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Leeds' Wide Track |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: Three riders line up at Leeds who are they ? note the
width of the track. Leeds staged speedway between 1928 and 1938.
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Norwich v
Belle Vue |
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Paddy Mills &
Jack Parker |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg
Fearman says: Three men in a hurry, 1950s at Norwich. Paddy Mills
outside leads Jack Parker inside. Who is the rider pulling the
big full locker overslide? A typical Jack Parker action shot at his
best. |
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Reg's Lockdown Photo Game Continues! |
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Reg says:
Have a very good BOXING DAY.
Speedway in the 2000s in the 1950s in the 1940s in the late
1920s/1930s question what is the difference? - no not the
coloured leathers/suits or full face helmets or machines.
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Reg's Pics 1 Late 1920/30s |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Max Grosskreutz, Ray Tauser and Dickie Case - Adelaide Australia
late 1920s. |
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John says: Early dirt track bikes are
always of great interest. I think Max is likely to be riding
an early Rudge. The other two could be on Rudges too but the
engines are not the same as Max's. I would guess that all 3
machines are housed in Rudge frames but possibly only max's engine
is a Rudge. If you can help with this please email me
John |
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Reg's Pics 2 1940s |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg
says: Vic Duggan squeezing between Bill Kitchen and George Wilks in
the 1940s |
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Reg's Pics 3 1950s |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: Arthur Bush and Nobby Stock Harringay 1950s
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John says: Harringay appear to be heading for a 5-1 over West Ham.
Now could the rider squeezing through on the inside be none other
than Reg Fearman! However, It is good to see such a close contest
between Harringay and West Ham. |
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Reg's Pics 4 Current Day |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Q.) Reg says: Re my 4 photos (see above)Speedway in the 2000s,
in the 1950s, in the 1940s and in the late 1920s/1930s question
what is the difference? - no not the coloured leathers/suits or
full face helmets or machines.
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A.) Answer to "What Is The Difference",
there is NO
difference, close racing throughout the 90 odd years! |
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Lockdown Diversion Continues |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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More old photos to enjoy on Boxing Day.
This photo was taken at West Ham in the 1950s it shows - almost
- Jack Young cutting the cake with Gerry Hussey looking on and
holding the cake. The lady is unknown but is a West Ham
supporter with the 'Hammers' badge - The occasion ? maybe
Jack's Birthday.
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%20Allen%20A.C.U.%20member%20and%20former%20Referee.%20.jpg) |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: Eric Chitty and ? Receive the 'Best Pairs Tankards'
from Mrs W.G. Allen in the 1930s, she was the wife of W.G.
(George) Allen A.C.U. member and former Referee. The ? I believe
could be Morian Hansen the first 'Great Dane' of the 1930s.
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John says: Could this be the last of the Reg Fearman
Coronavirus Lockdown specials? Get up in the attic Reg and
find some more photos! |
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More of
Reg Fearman's Lockdown Pictures |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Aub Lawson and Pee Wee Cullum at Belle Vue in 1939 |
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Ray Tauser |
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Adelaide |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Pre WW2 American rider Ray Tauser in Australia. I think this
photo may be from the 1920s |
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New Zealand |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: The New Zealand Team at Belle Vue 1950s - nearly 70
years ago! Only Barry Briggs is left out of that seven.
(John says: I am wondering why they
all have walking sticks!)
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World War 2 and Belle Vue |
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The Manchester promotion put on a number of events during WW2.
The Following photo was taken during the war at Belle Vue |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: This is Belle Vue during WW11 Tommy Price, Bill
Pitcher and Ron Johnson. Notice the knee hooks on the riders
right leg
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John says: Does anyone else think Johnson's front wheel looks bigger
than his opponents wheels? |
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Exeter Alphington 1944 |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Two more photos Belle Vue and Exeter, for the New Year,
both during World War 11 the period 1939 to 1945. -
The rider line up is amazing at Alphington Grass circuit near
Exeter - World Class. Cheers.
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Wembley World Final Practice |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: Practice At Wembley For The World Final 1954 Ove
Fundin And Aub Lawson. Please note the gloves on the hands
of Ove and His Trapping fingers? 66 Years Ago.
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East European Action |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: Four Riders in a hurry. It would seem numbers 2
and 5 are Russians on ESO's V Poland
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Crystal Palace |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says:
Crystal Palace 1928 - 1930 Who are they? |
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1965 World
Team Cup
Final |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says:
1965 World Team Cup Final at Kempten, West Germany. 1st Nigel
Boocock, 2nd Gennady Kurilenko, 3rd Antoni Woryna, Ove Fundin EF.
Note the photographer standing on the track by the hay bale and
other hay bales in the other gap! |
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Another couple of photos from 'lockdown' u.k. The virus seems to get
worse with the hospitals and nursing staff nearing breaking point
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Aub Lawson & Tommy Price |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: Test match England v Australia 1950s two men in a
hurry, these two did not "take prisoners"
Aub Lawson leads Tommy Price.
70 years ago?
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Harold Fairhurst |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: Unsung Heroes Of The Speedway The Three Photos Here
Are Around 70 Years Old.
Harold Fairhurst Was A Coal Miner At Huntly He Was From Hamilton
North Island New Zealand He Raced For Glasgow And Edinburgh
Started Racing in 1945 At Taita Speedway Also Known As Huntly In
New Zealand Served Glasgow And Edinburgh From 1948
Take A Look At The Machine An Excelsior With A Long Stroke 5
Stud J.A.P.
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Cyril Cooper & Harold Fairhurst |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: Cyril Cooper Is Outside Harold Fairhurst Racing for
Edinburgh |
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Roy Browning Dick Campbell & Len Williams |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: Three Men In A Hurry; Leicester's Roy Browning,
Edinburgh's Dick Campbell (Another Kiwi) And Len Williams of
Leicester 1951
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John says: these 3 photos feature some riders whom some would say
are lesser lights. Thank you Reg for sharing them with us. |
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Lockdown continues and we now have vaccinated more than 8 million
people |
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Aub Lawson |
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Aub Lawson 1914 - 1977 aged 63 Died Of Heart Attack in 1977 On
His Farm In West Australia.
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Courtesy of John Spoor |
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Courtesy of John Spoor |
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Coming to England |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg Says: On Board From Sydney And Bound For England In 1938 She?
Geoff Martin (Aub's friend and mechanic). Mary Engaged To Aub
& His Wife To Be. Aub Lawson and Aub's Sister Joyce |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Aub with his sister Joyce |
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Joyce & Lionel Van Praag |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: On Board: Joyce Lawson and Lionel van Praag 1908 -
1987 aged 79. Born In Sydney, Died In Brisbane Of Emphysema A
Heavy Smoker. He first raced in England in 1931 Started
Racing In 1926 in Sydney.
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Reg Fearman says: Good morning John, The above poster is from
1949 and has been hanging on my different garage walls for 70
years. You will see the admission prices at the bottom of
the poster. My name is sandwiched between two legends, Vic
Duggan and Jack Parker. For matches other than Test and W.C. the
money was £1.15 shillings a start and £2 a point. In those days
and for many years afterwards every contracted rider was entered
for the World Title, the Rounds starting in the Third Division
with the top riders progressing through to the Second division
and so on. I wonder how much the poster is worth to a collector
today? I guess some of the names will mean very little to most
of you and some of you were not yet born in 1949!!!
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Jack Parker 1947 British Match Race Champion |
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Lockdown Continuing
10 Feb 2021 |
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John says: My appointment for the coronavirus vaccination
finally came through! Hope it works! |
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British Empire Team |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: Three Photos Of 70 Years Ago - Where Has Time Gone!
We are still in 'Lockdown'. Eileen and I had our first
'antivirus injection' three weeks ago so we are hopeful.
ANOTHER NEARLY 70 YEARS OLD SOUTH
AFRICA TOUR EARLY 1950s.
Ronnie Genz Gerry Jackson Barry
Briggs Junior Bainbridge Freddie Williams Manager Allan Quinn
Front Peter Clarke and Ken McKinley
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1949/50 Tourists |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: Seventy Years Ago England Team In Australia For 1949 -
1950 Season Ron Clarke Freddie Williams Harry Tovey Manager
Cyril Rogers Dent Oliver Bill Kitchen Front: Howdy Byford
Oliver Hart Jack Parker Was Already In Australia
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1950 World Final Top 3 |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: Wally Green 2nd., Freddie Williams 1st., Graham Warren
3rd., World Championship Wembley 1950
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Reg says: A Few More Photos follow below. Getting A Little Difficult
now Finding The 80 To 90 Year Old Photos. |
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Great Stylists |
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Ronnie Moore & Ron Johnston |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: Ronnie Moore Ron Johnstone Both Great Stylists And Cyril
Brine At Belle Vue. |
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Cliff Watson |
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Reg says: Just 72 Years Ago, Cliff Watson Of Australia And
West Ham - Off Duty At Rye House 1948
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Belle Vue Tractor Ride |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: Belle Vue Riders With The Trophy Pre 1963. Bob
Duckworth Gote Nordin Tony Robinson Dick Fisher Arthur Wright
Ron Johnston Graham Coombes Peter Craven
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Plymouth 1954 |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: Plymouth Speedway Team 1954 - Back Row Next To
The Duffle Coat Jackie Gates George Wall With The High Forehead
Fifth From The Left Front Row Far Left Harold Bull Far right
Pete Lansdale The Others ??? Could Be Alan Smith Wearing The
Crash Helmet When He Raced For West Ham He Was In The Changing
Room At 4 pm All Dressed In His Leathers Ready For 7.45
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Newcastle NSW |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: Just 72 Years Ago Newcastle N.S.W. When Team Racing
Was Introduced :- ? ? Wild Bill Rogers Harold Light Promoter
Cliff Watson Keith Ryan Front Arthur Payne Norman Parker and Aub
Lawson
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Southampton
72 yrs ago |
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13/02/2021 |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: Palace House Beulieu The Home Of The Montague Family Since
1538 This Photo Of 1957 Alby Golden Bill Holden Peter Arnold Lord
Montague Brian Hanham Maury Mattingley Phil Bishop The Late Lord
Montague Was At That Time The Patron of the VSRA. |
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Soviets |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: Almost 60 years ago. Wembley 1963 Russia
Led By Igor Plechanov 1933-2007- 74 And Boris Samorodov
1933-2016-85
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Boris Samorodov and Igor Plechanov |
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Reg says: Arguably The Best Russian Speedway Riders of their era. |
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Boris & Igor |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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The Russian Connection Boris Samodorov 1931-2016 85yrs old and Igor
Plechanov 1933-2007 74yrs old
Two of the best Russian speedway riders of their time, multi world
finalists on the speedway and champions on Ice Speedway Racing -
photo by Ove Fundin.
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg
says: The Resting Place In Uffa Of Igor Plechanov with Family
In Attendance |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: Ove Fundin Leads Igor Plechanov In Sweden |
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Lockdown 2021 Continues |
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Reg says: Lockdown Seems To Be Getting Worse Instead Of Better -
I am Afraid Of Running Out Of Photos!
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: Silver Sand Flying Aub Lawson As A Leg Trailer 1947 At
West Ham leading Wal Morton 73 Years Ago From Stylish Leg Trailer
To........... |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: Two Men In A Big Hurry At Belle Vue In 1951 Some 70
Years Ago - Aub Lawson One Of The Few After So Successfully
Changing To Foot Forward Dicing with Jack Parker Jack Started To
Race In 1928 And Aub in 1937 Jack 1905 - 1989 Aged 84 Aub 1914
- 1977 Aged 63 Two Of The Best In Their Time
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: Test Match In England Where? 1949? Four Australians
Alec Hunter Aub Lawson Snowy Rogers Mechanic Cliff Watson It
Could Be Norwich
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: This Photo Shows A Welcome For Ron Johnson From Jack
Young And Gerry Hussey In The 1950s
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1948 Test Match |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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A Few More Old Photos. Just 72 Years Ago A Tight Sandwich.
Very Very Close Racing England v Australia Test Match 1948 Bill
Kitchen Born 1908 Vic Duggan Born 1910 George Wilks Born 1908 I
Wonder How This One Finished! Kitchen Was 40 Years Old Duggan 38
Wilks 40 Those Ages Were Not Unusual At That Time Kitchen
Started Racing at Belle Vue In 1933 Wilks At Harringay In 1934
Duggan In England At Hackney In 1937
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Re says: Just 70 yrs ago Wembley's Team Of 1950 Tommy Price
Jimmy Gooch Alf Bottoms George Wilks Bob Wells Bill Kitchen
Duncan King Manager Bruce Abernethy Eric Williams Jackie Gates
Freddie Williams Des Cosby Bill Gilbert Tommy The Trainer
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Olle Nygren |
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Reg says: Just Heard the sad news that Olle Nygren has died
today 13 Feb 2021 from covid he was 92 and fit. A legend in his
own lifetime
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Courtesy of John Spoor |
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Courtesy of John Spoor |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: Swedish Tour Perth Western Australia Olle Nygren. |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: Olle Nygren Joanna Fundin |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: Bert Harkins Olle Nygren Freddie Williams
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Ove and Olle |
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Courtesy of Joanna Fundin |
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Olle at breakfast and 91st Birthday wishes from Ove and Joanna |
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Courtesy of Joanna Fundin |
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SAD NEWS
These two photos were taken by Joanna Fundin and with her
permission here they are.
This photo Of Ove and Olle was taken in November last year
(2020) by Joanna in the hometown of Ove and Joanna Tranas Sweden
it was the 91st Birthday of Olle - 11.11.1929 - 13.02.2021 a
coronavirus victim.
Remembered by many with great fondness and admiration.
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American Riders |
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The Moran Brothers |
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Reg says: Although Americans Had Ridden In England In The Mid 1930s
With Great Success It Was Not Until The Americans Burst Upon The
British Scene In The Mid 1970s They Became A Powerhouse Of British
And International Racing Several Are Pictured Below. |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: Just Boy Racers, how It started In California, Kelly and
Shawn Moran |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: Kelly Moran at the Boulevard Hull 1980 |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: Kelly and Shawn Moran |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: A Sad Photo of Kelly Moran September 1960 - April 2010 He
Thrilled The Crowds By His Spectacular Style Of Racing He Was Just
49 When He died Of Emphysema The Result Of Being A Heavy Smoker. By
His Bedside Are His Mother Brother Shawn Bruce Penhall Bobby
Schwartz Ron Preston And Several More Riders And Friends. Very Few
Americans are on The Scene In Britain Today. |
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Promoters Meeting
1960 |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: Just 60 Years Ago In
....... Some Speedway Tracks Had Lay Dormant For Many Years.
The Inaugural Provincial League Promoters Meeting In 1960.
Ernest Palmer Frank Varey Pete Lansdale Bernard Curtis Wally
Maudsley Reg Fearman Ian Hoskins Maurice Jephcott Johnnie
Hoskins Dave Stevens Bill Bridgett Jack Knott Trevor Redmond
John Wick (Secretary) Mike Parker Charles Foot Jack Knott.
Seven Former Speedway Riders.
Hard To Believe That Only Ian And Me Are Left Of That 17 Who
Were Involved
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Peter Craven Ronnie Moore & Ron Johnston |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Peter Craven Ronnie Moore And Ron Johnstone Close Quarters At
Belle Vue. All Three Sadly Gone. As Is The Original Belle
Vue And Gardens.
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Wembley World Final 1958
1st Barry Briggs 2nd Ove Fundin 3rd Aub
Lawson |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Queensland
1946 |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Queensland 1946 Note The Big Fat Rear Tyre The Only Two I Recognise
Are Extreme Right Keith Ryan And Center Junior Bainbridge Note The
Old Style Frames With The Cross Bar Under The Fuel Tank The
Lightweight Duggan Frame Was Not Yet Universal. |
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Norwich 1953 |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: For Our Friends Overseas. We Are Still In
'Lockdown' In The UK, Big Fines For Travelling Out Of Your Area
Without An Acceptable Reason. 17,000,000 of us vaccinated.
Almost 70 Years Ago At Norwich A Hot Bed Of Speedway In Its
Time. Norwich Speedway Team Of 1953 Billy Bales Aub Lawson
Fred Pawson Roy Craighead Merv Neil Front Row Alec Hunter Fred
Rogers Phil Clarke
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John Haarhy's Hotel |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: Merv Hannam Tees Off At John Harrhy's The Windmill
Hotel And Golf Course. |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg Says: Above Left, Just For A Change Three Colour
Photos Of What Some Speedway Riders Do For Leisure.
WSRA Dinner From The Left Brenda And Harry Maclean Friend Of
Roni Ferguson And Roni Sheila Hannam Eileen Fearman Merv Hannam
- Note The Bottles On The Table.
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Reg says: Hotel Owned By John Haarhy. Ian Hoskins Nigel Haarhy Ronnie Allen Ove Fundin Right Side
Merv Hannam Sheila Hannam Roni Ferguson Harry Maclean |
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Jack Young
Gerry Hussey
& Aub Lawson |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Australians |
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Four Photos of Some of Australia’s best.
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: Australian Test Team 1950-1951 Series Sydney. Lionel Van
Praag Dick Seers Aub Lawson
Cec Weatherall Team Manager Jack
Arnfield Keith Ryan Front Row: Lionel Levy Ken Le Breton Jackie
Gates
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: It Could Be Paramatta Sydney 1950
-1951 Bob Fletcher Ken Le Breton Jackie Gates
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: Australia 1939 At Belle Vue Ron
Johnson Vic Duggan Lionel Van Praag ? Ray Duggan Arthur Simcock
Manager ? ? Aub Lawson
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: Three Of Australia’s Best In 1947
Max Groskreutz Aub Lawson Vic Duggan
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Aub Lawson |
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Reg's Mentor |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg Fearman says: Aub Lawson was my mentor in 1947. It was
he, who put me, aged 14 onto two wheels with an engine, in fact
a 1928 Douglas and started me on a lifetime in speedway racing -
I make no excuse for publishing his photos. Aub himself 10 times
a World Finalist and Australian Champion.
The Aub Lawson Page his first year in England A Wembley Lion in
1939 and World Finalist
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Aub's War |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: Aub a Wartime Australian Officer 1939 -1945 his ship was
sunk leaving Singapore in that evacuation. |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: Golden Helmet Arthur Atkinson Aub Lawson Sunday Mirror
Sponsors Don Clarke George Casey |
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Aub & Family |
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1950s |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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This section celebrates Reg's friend and mentor Aub Lawson.
There are many photos of Aub on the website and a fair few of them
have been sent to me by Reg. |
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Reg's Lockdown Specials The end is nigh |
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Reg says: The end of the lockdown is now in sight. I hope you
have enjoyed some of the photos from my collection - collected over
many years. This will be my last 'round robin' of the series
as Eileen and I move home quite soon. We move back to Henley on
Thames having been here in Leek near the Peak District National Park
for seven years. An awful lot of packing to be done!!! Cheers. |
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John S Hoskins MBE |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Reg says: The Grand Old Man Born 1892 passed on 1987 aged 97 Johnnie
S (for Stark) Hoskins Just Awarded The M.B.E. Buckingham Palace
1979. |
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Wembley Tickets |
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Gt. Britain v U.S.S.R |
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4th July 1964 |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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John says: My thanks to Reg for sending me so many photos
during the 2021 Coronavirus Lockdown. My favourite of his
photos is shown below |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Australia v England |
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New South Wales |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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White Langfield Collins Fearman Newcastle NSW |
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Reg &
Split Waterman
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2016
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Reg says: Last week Eileen and I flew out to Malaga for three
days. The temperature hovered around 38c - far too hot for us.
It was the 93rd birthday on 27th July of Split Waterman. We
had arranged a few weeks ago to take Squire and Avril out for a
Birthday Lunch at his favourite fish restaurant on the beach.
We had two good days with them before flying home. They have
lived in Nerja for 33 years.
Squire is still driving and has all his 'marbles' he is still
looking to do a 'little business'. Unfortunately his knees are
pretty bad and he is on two sticks, I am sure his weight of 15
stone doesn't help. Nevertheless he and Avril do get out and
about to some of their favourite spots on a regular basis.
Cheers, Reg
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Split Waterman |
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2016 |
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An Ex-Pat Brit Living In Malaga, Spain |
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Pictures courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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BSPA AGM Meetings Photographs (3) |
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Picture 1 |
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| Speedway Promoters' AGM
Manchester 1967 |
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Colin Jewes says:
Picture 1 standing: Eddie Glennon,
Ron Wilson, Pete Lansdale, Alan Martin, JS Hoskins, Bill
Bridgett, ?, Ian Hoskins, Frank Varey, Reg Fearman, Len Silver,
Dent Oliver, ?, Danny Dunton, Maury Littlechild, Jack Knott.
Front: Wally Mawdsley, Chas. Ochiltree, Mike
Parker, Ronnie Greene, Chas Foot, Dave Stevens.
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Reg Fearman says:
Next to Eddie Glennon is Danny
Taylor. Between Dent Oliver and Danny Dunton is Ted Nelson,
Jack Knott is actually Charles Knott Jnr. The
last unnamed gentleman was a Belle Vue Director or at least
a Director of Trust House Forte and had a grace and favour
apartment in the grounds of Belle Vue Gardens. I do know his
name. When I remember it I will let you know. |
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Hi John: I am Trevor Hay from East Lothian and my
only claim to fame in the speedway world was as the
co-promoter of Ice Racing/Speedway around Scotland
in 1972.
One of my contacts then was the unknown guy in the
photo of the above. He is the one standing in front
and slightly right of Ian Hoskins and his name was
Morris Marshall and as you say from Belle Vue at
that time. I met him after he contacted me about
taking the Ice racing to Aviemore Ice Rink which we
did in April '72. He had the position then of
General Manager of the Aviemore Centre which Stakis
had a big share of so it seems to tie in to the info
you already had about him. He then became an
advertising client of mine for many years and each
time we met to talk business, he veered of to talk
about speedway from his past and our mutual interest
of bikes in general.
I am still a big fan of the Edinburgh Monarchs and
might well be going to watch the Glasgow Edinburgh
final on Saturday. I am friends with Harry McLean,
Brian Collins and a number of other former worthies
of the Speedway scene up here in Scotland.
I wish you well continuing with this great piece of
work on the web... it gives many happy hours to so
many!
Kind Regards, Trevor Hay
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| Picture 2 |
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| Speedway Promoters' AGM
Bournemouth |
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| Colin Jewes says: Picture2
standing: Ian Hoskins, Reg
Fearman, Alan Martin, Norman Parker, ?, Wally Mawdsley, ?, ?,
Chas Foot, Bill Bridgett, Eddie Glenn, Pete Lansdale, Len
Silver.
Front Trevor Redmond, Chas Ochiltree, JS
Hoskins, Frank Varey, Dave Stevens, Mike Parker, Ronnie Greene |
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| Reg Fearman says: Promoters AGM Photo 2 The man behind Norman Parker is
Danny Taylor. In front of Charles Foot and next to Bill
Bridgett is Charles Knott jnr. It only leaves the mystery friend
of Frank Varey next to Danny Taylor and behind Wally Mawdsley.
Such a shame that Gladys Varey wife of Frank died just a few
weeks ago. Who else can we ask ? |
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Arnie Gibbons says: This is the cover photo of Speedway
Star 29.1.65, from the very first BSPA meeting on 15
January (at Harbour Hotel, Poole).
The missing names are Harold Jackson [BV] (behind Wally
Mawdsley's right shoulder) and Les Clarke [Sheffield]
(behind Mawdsley's left shoulder). Interesting to note
that there are no representatives from Oxford
(undergoing a change of ownership) and West Ham (but
Charles Ochiltree was presumably representing their
interests).
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| John says: Apparently Count Dracula was at this meeting too and
he even posed with the promoters for the above photo! Look out
Eddie Glennon you're the nearest. |
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| Picture 3 |
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Col Greenwell says:
Hi John, Promoters not my strong point but
I can name a few in your Photo's. Photo 2.....Johnnie Hoskins is
leaning on Frank Vareys shoulders. These two in all three pics. Can
see your mate Reg Fearman in all three. Len Silver in all three.
Mike Parker in all three.
The guy with the paint brush on his chin..(don't print that!!!..lol
) Is Bill Bridgett who is also in all three pics. Cheers...Col
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Colin Jewes says
Picture 3 standing:
Chas Ochiltree, Chas Foot, Wally Mawdsley, Pete Lansdale, Bill
Bridgett, ?, Reg Fearman, Frank Varey, ?, Dave Stevens, ?, Eddie
Glenn, Alan Martin.
Middle row: Foot, JS Hoskins, Ian Hoskins, Danny
Duntton, Len Silver, ?, ?, Front: Trevor Redmond,
Nelson Mills Baldwin (SCB), Mike Parker, Ronnie Greene.
(I may have the Foot & Knott combo crossed, – or totally wrong.
– ?)
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Bob Bath says:
Hi John, re the promoters picture
3-Colin is right in that
Charles Foote is in the back next to Ochiltree. Guy on left
in the middle is Bill (?) Knott. Guy at very back behind
Frank Varey is Ken Sharples who looked after Newport in 1966
along with Eddie Glennon (not Glenn).Both Sharples and Glennon
were killed in road accidents at different times – I think
67 and 68 respectively. I think in both cases they were
travelling back from Newport to the north after a
meeting-Ken Sharples certainly was .Cheers bob
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Back Row. Charles Ochiltree, Charles Foot, Wally
Mawdsley, Pete Lansdale, Bill Bridgett, Jack
Knott, Reg Fearman, Frank Varey, Ken Sharples,
Dave Stevens, Frank Varey's friend, Eddie
Glennon, Alan Martin.
Middle Row. Charles Knott jnr, Johnnie Hoskins
M.B.E., Ian Hoskins, Danny Dunton, Len Silver,
Bill Chandler, another ?
Front Row. Trevor Redmond, Nelson Mills Baldwin,
Mike Parker, Ronnie Greene M.B.E.
Eddie Glennon died at night on the way from
Newport to Manchester. Ken Sharples died in
Manchester where he was involved in an accident
with a bus.
Only survivors of that photo are Len Silver,
Danny Dunton, Ian Hoskins and me R F, all now in
their 80s.
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| WSRA Lunch
At Bulphan Essex |
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Danny Dunton's leathers he used in the late 1940s complete with the Harringay
race jacket.
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Billy Sanders' Equipment
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| William Robert "Billy" Sanders (Born: 9
September 1955 - Died: 23 April 1985). Sanders committed
suicide at his home in Ipswich. At the time he was suffering serious
financial difficulties and had recently split from his wife (who
would later cut all ties with the Sanders family and would marry
Gary Guglielmi). His body was identified by Ipswich promoter John
Berry. |
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Stoke's
80th Birthday
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This grim sight is courtesy of Reg Fearman. About all that is left
of Sun Street the main gate as was with the fast decaying wall advertising
Hanley Stadium
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Eileen and I were invited to attend on April 11,
2009 the Chesterton Stadium (Stoke) to celebrate the 80th anniversary
of the first speedway meeting in the Potteries that took place at Hanley
Stadium, Sun Street in April 1929. |
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It was a very pleasant evening - with Rye House
as the visitors - we were made most welcome by promoter Dave Tattum and
Howard Jones. |
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Of course a lot of races have taken place in
those 80 years and a lot of men have worn the famous "Potters" emblem of the
Five stars representing the Five Towns that make up Stoke on Trent.
The "Potteries" is actually made up of Six Towns. It was in 1910
that Stoke on Trent was born with the federation of the six towns namely :-
Hanley, Burslem, Longton, Stoke, Tunstall and Fenton. It was the"
Potteries" own most famous novelist and playwright Arnold Bennett, 1867 -
1931, who wrote about the Five Towns and thereafter it has been accepted as
such - but not in truth. |
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Speedway racing was a rather hit and miss affair
at Sun Street with the sport being tried several times between 1929 and 1939.
Two of those early day speedway riders became friends of mine in later years.
Len Blunt who went on to own butchers shops in the "Potteries" and "Chun"
Walter Moore. Both were local lads at the time. "Chun"
went on to race at Belle Vue and you will find him on some of the "Aces" team
photos. When he retired from racing he went into the Fireplace Surround
manufacturing business in the "Potteries" . The most continuous run at Sun
Street was from 1947 to 1953. It was in October 1963 that Sun Street
staged their last meeting after four succesful seasons under my promotion.
The Stadium was sold - like so many others - for building development |
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It was most pleasant to meet up with two members
of my old team of 48 years ago - Colin Pratt and Eric Hockaday -and meet with
some of the boys who raced at Loomer Road. Tom Owen, Eric Monaghan, Paul
Thorpe and Nigel Crabtree. We were introduced to the crowd during the
interval and received a very warm reception. We all had plenty to
talk over in between the races. The evening went just too quickly and
suddenly it was time to say goodbye until next time. |
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| Ex Stoke
Riders |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman
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All ex Stoke
riders. Eric Hockaday, Colin Pratt from Stoke Sun Street days, Tom Owen, Eric
Monaghan, Paul Thorpe and Nigel Crabtree from Chesterton Loomer Road.
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Reg Fearman,
Eric Hockaday
& Colin Pratt
All
Rode For Stoke At Sun Street |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman
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The Speedway Farm
Western
Australia
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Courtesy Reg Fearman
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The Swedish Team at Speedway Farm West Australia. Is
that Olle Nygren with the rifle?
If so DUCK!
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Claremont Speedway In
Perth
West Australia |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman
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The first bend of
the car race track. The speedway track as we know it is on the inside.
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Claremont Speedway in Perth West Australia
was speedway's longest running venue. The doors opened for speedway in 1927
and closed in April 2000 - 73 continuous years. Their pledge - " Our
mission is to provide high quality and good value entertainment, recreation
and service to Western Australia motorsport, the general public and business
communities ". - Eventually the lease expired at the Agriculture Showground
and was not renewed. A new site was found some miles south of the city and
after protracted negotiations with the usual authorities permission was
granted to build a new purpose built stadium at Kwinana. The driving
force behind this operation was Con Migro and it is he who the people have to
thank for his sterling efforts to save speedway in the area. |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman |
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Colin and
Trish McKee and Eileen Fearman watching the first bend at Kwinana |
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Aub Lawson was Con's mentor and it was he who
took Con on full time at the Claremont Speedway office in 1973. It was a
labour of love that Con carried out for 27 years. You will find no one
in the whole wide world more enthusiastic about all forms of speedway racing
than Con Migro. |
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Aub Lawson started his speedway career in Sydney
in the late 1930s and raced for Middlesbrough and Wembley prior to the
outbreak of war. In 1947 he joined West Ham and after a short spell
transferred to Norwich.
 Aub
had always been interested in farming and it was while with Norwich that he
gained much farming experience from Jack Norton who had a very large farm in
Norfolk. Jack was also a keen speedway supporter.
Aub put his newly gained knowledge into a farm at
Quirindi in New South Wales which he purchased in the mid 1950s. This did not
work out too well for him or his family and eventually the farm was sold.
During this time, Aub continued to race in England. Each year he had racing
commitments at Claremont and had a very good relationship with the directors
Mick Tilby and George Milne who also owned the Brisbane Hotel in a Perth
suburb. It was in 1960 that Aub was asked to "come on board" with the
promotion at Claremont and it was he who developed both Claremont Speedway and
the Speedway Farm in W.A. The profits from the speedway operation were
ploughed into the farm which proved a great success. Many speedway
riders from around the world who were racing at Claremont or passing through
were entertained at the Speedway Farm which, like most farms in Australia,
covered many square miles.
Picture courtesy of Mike Kemp
Aub With Mrs Jack Thompson at Norwich Speedway
Aub, having made such a success of the Speedway Farm, decided to buy a farm
for himself at Northam, some 50 miles from Perth. It was there
that he died in January 1977 from a heart attack. He had previously
strained and damaged his heart through lifting a sheep during sheep shearing.
He was just 63 years of age.
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| Aub Lawson On
The Tractor |
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Courtesy of Mike Kemp |
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Aub Lawson on the
tractor with his farming mentor Jack Norton
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| The Swedish Team |
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Courtesy Reg Fearman
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The Swedish Team Prior To Going Hunting
Speedway Farm W.A..Can you name them
John
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| Olle Nygren |
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Courtesy Reg Fearman
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during a Swedish tour of Oz. That's Olle Nygren in the red jacket and a hungry
looking dog in black n white! Who is the other guy and what year was it? A
special bonus point for anyone recognising the barbecue meal being prepared,
Kangaroo or sheep?
John |
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| Soren Sjosten |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman
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| Speedway Farm W.A. So It Was A Kangaroo Being
Skinned. Soren Sjosten With The Spoils. Go on Soren pick on someone your own
size! |
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Swedes
In The Sun (Ouch!)
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Courtesy Reg Fearman
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| A picture from Perth South Australia, taken
during a Swedish tour of Oz. Swedes in the sun! Spot the Bernt Persson! I can
make out Olle Nygren 2nd from left and possibly Bernt Persson sitting on bike.
What? I don't know why he didn't use sun tan lotion! The lady is Aub
Lawson's second wife Roma Can you name these riders
John |
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Reg Fearman says: I see you have the pictures of
the Swedes in Perth. I should have said that at that time through
the sixties and well into the seventies the Directors cum Shareholders of
Claremont Speedway had invested in a huge farm outside of Perth and that is
where the photos were taken. Aub Lawson was the manager of the Speedway
and a shareholder through that period. It was when Aub had his first
heart attack that Con Migro took over. |
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Colin Jewes says: The rider on the right is Jan Simensson, one-time
Cradley. Is the chap to the right of the lady Anders Michanek ?
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| John says: Well it could be Anders? At the risk of being racist, Swedes all look
alike to me. |
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Colin says: Perth, Nov. 1971. Left -
right: Bengt Larsson; Olle Nygren; -?- (short, in hat,); Bernt
Persson; (female, Mrs Lawson,); Anders Michanek; Bengt Jansson; Jan Simensson.
Missing, - on the camera maybe? - , Soren Sjosten. (There is a short chap
wearing a hat, BUT as he's also the only chap fully dressed wearing a shirt,
long trousers and a hat he MUST be an Aussie ! ) |
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Colin Jewes says:
Further to my earlier
response, - With the add'l photo of the kangaroo and Soren Sjosten on this page
we can now see that the chap with the Swedish team is indeed Soren S., - despite
the 'winter' wear of hat, shirt and long trousers! |
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The Swedish Team Pre Match Practice
At Claremont, Perth
W.A. |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman
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The Swedish Team
At Claremont, Perth,
West Australia |
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Courtesy of Reg Fearman
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| The Swedish Team at Claremont Perth West
Australia. Can you name them
John |
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Brian Stevenson says: Soren Sjosten, Bernie Persson, don't
know, Anders Michanek, don't know, Bengt Janssen. Olle Nygren on bike |
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| Bob Bath says: Hi John, I agree with the riders that Brian Stevenson has named
-I think the one he missed-between Anders and Bengt Jannson is Bengt Larsson
(Sheffield) Cheers Bob Bath |
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| Reg In NZ 2018 |
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| Courtesy of Reg via Bob Andrews |
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| Reg with Ian Hoskins |
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| Courtesy of Reg via Bob Andrews |
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| Dave Gifford ? Ian Hoskins and Reg Fearman
during 2018. Disproving the myth that Giffy never smiles when
a camera is pointed at him! I am sorry I don't know whom the
gent 2nd from left is, so if you know send me an email
John |
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| My thanks to Bob Andrews for sending me
these images. |
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| The contents of the site are © and should not be
reproduced elsewhere for financial gain. The contributors to this site
gave the pictures and information on that understanding. If anyone has
any issue or objections to any items on the site please
e-mail
and I will amend or remove the item. Where possible credit
has been given to the owner of each item. |
