steve roberts

Jens Rasmussen married a local girl which, of course, added some strength to his case when he was signed by Rye House in 1988. Olle Nygren and Soren Sjosten married local girls which enable them to compete in Britain during 1974 when commuting Swedes were banned from the British League as they were both domiciled in the UK at the time.

Always remember when Eric wrote an article referring to Garry Middleton but spelling Garry with one 'r'. Garry was quick on the uptake and said to Eric just think of "Rolls Royce" when you refer to me again.

Remember when he stood in at Cowley during 1976 he started off with a war cry as "The Rebels" before realising his mistake and that Oxford were now operating under the name of "The Cheetahs"!

I agree and it was more accustomed back then for riders to spend a large chunk of their careers connected to a particular club.

There's a tribute to Eric in the latest edition of "Backtrack". He passed away in a Leicestershire care home in April aged 94.

Strewth! Didn't realise that Stoke was no longer? Remember when it was built (1973) and their first season when they rode under the name of Chesterton.

I think that Dent Oliver's name was mentioned and Jack Parker rode as Captain and Team Manager (?) and Frank Varey may have played a role but I'm really not sure. Having read John Berry's book he did quote that when England/Great Britain rode it was often the Home Promoter/Team Manager who took charge?

I think that I'm right that Len became the first "official Team Manager" as prior to that it was on an ad hoc basis? Len became manager between 1973 - 76 and again in 1981 -1983. John Berry was manager in 1977 - 79 and again in 1985. Ian Thomas and Eric Boocock in 1980. Eric Boocock and John Berry in 1981 but John resigned. Wally Mawdesly in 1984. Carl Glover in 1986. Colin Pratt and Eric Boocock in 1987 - 1989. Reg Fearman took charge on trips "Down Under" I recall as did John Berry (certainly during 1975/76) I'm only going on memory but I'm sure there are many out there who can provide a more comprehensive and/or accurate list?

I know of Len Silver, Reg Fearman, John Berry, Ian Thomas & Eric Boocock, Colin Pratt & Eric Boocock, Wally Mawdsley, Carl Glover of those during the seventies & eighties.

Fell out with the Promotion at Oxford in 1974 however when he was involved at Cowley after the demise of Reading in 1973.

Another great read! I found the interview with Steve McDermott particularly enlightening especially his friendship with Jack Millen.

Great news!

Another sad loss if Rye House is indeed lost to speedway.

Think that he now works at the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford?

Poor old 'Budgies" featured in head to head with "The Rebels" and "Cheetahs". Must have been galling seeing their nearest and dearest rivals picking up so much silverware during the period covered!

I remember he used to wear khaki. Last saw him when he 'adopted' Neil Evitts (1986?)

I recall reading some years ago that he won the lottery?

Perhaps not the furthest to travel but just read in the latest "Backtrack" magazine that Steve McDermott and his great buddy Jack "The Villain" Millen would both catch the train from Crewe to Edinburgh and make the return trip on the sleeper after the meeting.

Damn...I'd forgotten to update my subscription! Put it right today and looking forward in receiveing back dated editions.

Edward Jancarz - Wimbledon (1977 - 82)

A rider I felt who never really did himself justice in Britain despite a fine international record (World under 21 Champion and a third in the World one year)

Damn! Caught out again...many thanks! It's very difficult finding riders who fell into that particular category? I'm obviously not looking at riders who did a couple of years (mainly overseas like Roman Jankowski for example) but who remained loyal to one particular club for, say, five years or more.

George White - Swindon

There's two names that remind me of trips to Radipole Lane when holidaying in Weymouth!

Per Jonsson - Reading