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When Newcastle Speedway re-opened
in 1961 the black and white Diamonds were born, prior to 1961 our team wore
red and white.
The 60's were the start of the modern era at Newcastle. Many of our older
fans (including the author of this article) began supporting the team and
we are still coming through the turnstiles today.
An historic moment, as there has been no speedway at Brough Park since 1951.
The "Black n White" Newcastle team shown above paraded before the 10,000
crowd at the opening meeting of 1961. Don Wilkinson lead out Slant Payling,
Willie Templeton, Doug Templeton and Vic Lonsdale extreme right. Newcastle
could not field an entire team of their own and "borrowed" Doug and Willie
from Edinburgh.
1961 Don Wilkinson, George Major, Gordie Mitchell, Promoter
Mike Parker, Gil Goldfinch, George Glen, Pat Flanagan, Maurice Morley Slant
Payling kneeling with the mascot. Mike Parker owned half of Newcastle, his
business sleeping partner was Middlesbrough Promoter Reg Fearman.
Many good riders wore the Diamond in the 1960's - here are Vic Lonsdale outside
and Gil Goldfinch on the white line.
Brian Craven
Ivan Mauger leading Middlesbrough's Clive Hitch
Ivan on the white line. The Poole rider behind him must have been a real
optimist. No way would Ivan make a mistake to let him through on the inside.
Mauger could do what he wanted at Brough and the opposition could only try
in vain to beat him.
Mike Watkin The pick of Newcastle's local talent. Mike could
live with world class riders around Brough. He defeated world champion Barry
Briggs amongst taken other notable scalps.
Brian Brett
Ole Olsen & Ivan Mauger - Ole Olsen became World Champion
three times, his achievements bettered only by
Mauger.
Dave Gifford - the ultimate team man. |
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