kimhomestead

When Guy Allot raced at Odsal in the 50s, the nameplate on his bike said Geoff Allot. At the time I understood that Geoff Allot was a relative who failed to make the grade, and Guy bought his bike, but didn't change the nameplate. Also, Guy used to park his car and trailer at the top of the huge banking overlooking what was then the first corner, and his elderly father sat in the car watching the racing.

Thanks for putting me right, Norbold. Obviously, my memory playing tricks again. Still, some great meetings between the Aces and the Stars at Hyde Road though.

Congratulations to Olle on his 75th. birthday. I first watched speedway at Odsal, Bradford in 1949 and Olle is one of the finest and hardest riders it has been my pleasure to watch. I can still recall the days when he visited Belle Vue as a member of the Norwich side which included both Ove Fundin and Aub Lawson. What a fabulous heat-leader trio. Thanks for all the entertainment you have given over the years, and for putting a lot back into British speedway through your training schools.

More info. on the Bill Andrew thread. He had a spell with Halifax, I think just one year in the late sixties.

Can't help with the name Zilinger, but the other two are Bob Lovell and Jack Hughes. (Incidentally Hughes and Arthur Forrest were brothers-in -law) Also the Ron Pearson should be Ron Peace.

1966. Almost thev last two matches of the season. Monday night at Exeter. A brilliant win by Eric Boothroyd to win the match for Halifax, 38 40. *(I think he beat Tommy Sweetman who at that time was pretty handy round the County Ground.) The following night, Tuesday, the Dukes travelled to West Ham. Once again, it was a brilliant win for the veteran Boothroyd over, of all people, the late, great Ken McKinlay. These two brilliant performances finally clinched the league title for the Halifax side. I think Eric is still alive and well, and living in his native Halifax. A tough, no-nonsense rider, and a really nice bloke.

Sandman. Agree that Chris Pusey was a rough, tough little character, but he certainly wouldn't have spat out, as you put it, old timers such as 'Gentleman' Aub Lawson, Olle Nygren, Dent Oliver, Belle Vue skipper, Ron Johnstone, a no nonsense Kiwi, or veteran Halifax captain, Eric Boothroyd. They also, ALL reached at least one world final, something Chris Pusey never achieved. kimhomestead