Barrow Speedway Reunion 2016
By John Coulston

Graham Tattersall on what used to be the track at Holker street

Barrow Speedway held their first ever reunion on Saturday 4th June 2016. The event was organised by John Eanshaw and was held at the Cross Bar in Holker Street, Barrow which actually overlooks the ground where Speedway was held from 1972 - 1974 (The other venue at Park Road is now unfortunately under a factory).

There was even a photo opportunity with former rider Graham Tattersall's vintage Jap bike on the start/finish line where the track used to be. The event was a great success with over 80 guests enjoying a 70's/80's themed disco and a Pie & Pea supper with various reunion themed memorabilia for sale such as T-shirts, caps, mugs etr

There was also an auction for the four Barrow Speedway replica bibs, one of which the Barrow Blackhawks bib had been signed by current World Champion Tai Woffinden in memory of his Father Rob who rode for the Blackhawks in 1984.

Also there was Glen Belcher with his gating game that proved a huge success and was won by another former rider Scott Cook.

Other former riders to attend were Keith Evans, Ian Hindle, Sid Sheldrick, Mark Dickinson, Steve Shuttleworth, Eric Broadbelt, Steve Newsham & Lee Gedling as well as former Furness Flyers Promoter Cliff Hindle.

Also in attendance was former world champion Peter Collins who raced in a series of match races against Barry Briggs at Holker Street in 1974.

A great time was had by all with lots or reminiscing and photos and programmes from the old days being signed by the riders. £900 was raised which is to be split between Macmillan Cancer Support (as former Barrow Promoter George Graham is suffering) & the Speedway Riders Benevolent Fund.

Many thanks are due to John Earnshaw and his team for organising a great event.

Scott Cook getting his trophy off Glen Belcher for winning the gating game

Keith Evans On Graham's Jap

John Earnshaw interviewing Peter Collins & ex Barrow Blackhawks Eric Broadbelt & Steve Newsham

John Earnshaw on the gating game

This article was first published on 12th June 2016