Malcolm Simmons

The speedway world is in mourning after the death of Malcolm 'Simmo' Simmons. As we reported recently, Simmo was admitted to a Kent hospice earlier this month suffering the severe effects of emphysema. Sadly he passed away over the weekend.

Simmo was a true legend of British Speedway in a career that spanned an incredible 30 years. A legendary performer for Poole, King's Lynn, Wimbledon and Hackney (amongst others), he also had an excellent record on the international stage. He finished second in the 1976 World Final, he won three World Pairs title and was a regular in the England side for many years. He reflected on his achievements in his 2006 auto-biography 'Simmo':

"I can look back on my days as an England rider and captain with a lot of pride and plenty of satisfaction. When I rode for my country it was more about pride rather than money and being able to say that you were one of the best seven riders in the country - because there were a lot of good English riders who didn't win many caps in the 70s. We got close to winning the BBC's Sports Personality of the Year team award on more than one occasion. Looking back, it was brilliant to be part of those teams and the great speedway era in which I rode. "

"With four consecutive World Team Cup winners' medals, three World Pairs victories (with different partners) and 80 international caps to my name, I have a lot to be happy about. "

Friends and fans have paid tribute on social media:

This article was first published on 26th May 2014