Bryn

Ah... Coatbridge - the only speedway track where I've ever had to pay to get OUT of the bar! Us coachload of Crayford Kestrelites arrived nice an early for our match (think we got walloped!) and duly took residence in the bar. As we went to go out to watch the meeting this bloke demanded 10p from each of us before he'd allowed us out. Seemed his job was to collect said amount from everyone as they went in but we had arrived at the circuit before him!

Remember being at a Paisley v Crayford meeting back in the year dot and, before the match could get underway, avidly watching Neil McFarlane having to take chunks out of the centre green with a spade all along the home straight. Apparently the powers that be had decided that the track wasn't wide enough - hence Neil's nifty spadework!

Sad news indeed and such a waste of talent. Let's hope the kid (as that's what he still is) can sort his life out.

Although I did not have time other than to say a very quick "hello," it was great to see Richard "The Racer" Green enjoying the action at Smallbrook last night. That follows upon "Postman" Pete Wigley being there the previous two Tuesdays and, of course, George Major being there nigh on most Tuesdays. Pleased to report that the trio all appear to be in very good health.

Undertaking my normal announcing duties abroad on the Isle of Wight last night, it was indeed a pleasure to catch up again with one of the real characters of the past - ex-rider Pete Wigley and his wife Chris. HOWEVER, the one thing I SHOULDN'T have asked was, "when did you pack up riding Pete?" Needless to say he's as useless as me at remembering things like that but, quick as a flash, Chris yelled, "1979!" Sheesh! 1979 - 28 years ago! I feel old!!!!!!! And THEN, to compound it all, Pete told me Laurie Etheridge is now aged 65!!!! Where's my zimmer frame????

Very sad news indeed as everyone has said, especially coming so soon after the passing of former referee Will Hunter. I saw "Speedy Pete" racing many, many times and a nicer bloke you couldn't wish to meet either. Deepest condolences to all his family and friends. For further tributes go to: http://cheetahschat.proboards76.com/index....85300765&page=1 Bryn

Mmmm.... let me see ...... Bundy supplies almost out; Freezing cold here in January; Baking hot in Oz at the same time; speedway season in UK ends October 31st (weather permitting that is!); Cheesed off with rained off meetings; Haven't seen my mates who live in Oz since end of January this year; It's your round I believe BFD - yep may well be there IF the Bank manager lets me!

Jesus wept! I knew SOMEONE would find something to whinge about - well done Shovvy!

Good to see ex-Crayford Kestrel Garry May on the Isle of Wight last night, albeit he's now a tad over his former "racing weight!"

Only cos he was rather good at beating your favourites!

Wot no Galvini??? Nor.... Tom & Joe Owen TB alias Trevor Barnwell "Gentleman" George "Red" Ott Todd Roger & Alan Johns Pete Wigley (arrived at Crayford one night and blurted out,almost tearfully, "I killed Ole Olsen this morning! - Will explain to Tony Mac if he wants!) OMG lots more - now let me think....

Thanks tarabanko - info much appreciated.

What time does the meeting start - anyone know? Maybe a longshot but any live updates?

Noddy will be with ya Stevie boy when he's good 'n ready and wants to be - and not before! Was still feeling very battered and bruised in the pits at King's Lynn on Wednesday. We drummed into him that it was all about qualifiying at Vojens but Noddy, being Noddy.....

Are you aware of the meaning of the word 'rootin' in Aussiespeak mops???

Mere words are totally and utterly inadequate at a time of tragedy like this. I feel sure that the thoughts of the entire speedway family worldwide, because that's in effect what we are - a family, are with Kenny's own family and friends at this harrowing time. R.I.P. Kenny

I've got a pretty Pink shirt BFD but don't believe for one moment comments that I look pretty in pink - I confess that I would have a hard job looking pretty in ANY colour! Can't really offer you a loan of my pink 'un - don't think it would fit ya somehow!

Poms are always welcome in Oz - good job I'm Welsh!

Two more for you - back left as you look at photo is Ken Irvine who sadly died some years ago and back right is Don Barker whose son Graham had a go at riding speedway. Bryn

Ah - the Infamous Kestrelettes who appeared for one night only at a local derby against Arena Essex. To start you off - that flat cap can be seen on the terraces at Rye House every racenight nowadays eh Tadpole?

Absolutely tragic news Mateusz and I'm sure that evrybody's heart goes out to their families and friends. Bryn

I suppose that I might have to venture 'down under' again Trackman if only to once again demonstrate the trick art of parking your boat on a sandbank! Er.... plus I'm getting dangerously low on Bundy!

Ah Veggy!!! Ran into him again a couple of years back and, as I recall, I think he said he was driving coaches for a living. Travelled with him to a few away matches back then - we used to wind him up when we pointed to road signs we thought were put out cos they knew he was coming i.e. "Soft Verge!" Good times back then. Wonder what happened to his mate Dave Whitta? Roland Danno stayed with the Verges and, being Roland, used to cause chaos! It sure was good to see Roland at Oxford earlier this year. Bryn

Not forgetting the tanner and the bob etc!

Not forgetting, on our travels, double tactical substitute in heat 8!