Club CH News Archive
Scunthorpe : Sunday 10th April
More
than 40 Cradley fans went to Scunthorpe for the British Under 21 Championship
Round. Great to see a new venue and a superb racing track too.
Why can't we find a piece of land like this?
Video Night : Friday 25th February
The first Heathens Video Night of 2005 was held on 25th February and the evenings have proved so successful that there's a new bigger venue. Cradley Heath Labour Club in Graingers Lane, off the Five Ways at the end of Cradley Heath High Street.
The next video night on 22nd March was a great success with the young American Dream Team in attendance and other invited guests. Lawrence Rogers interviewed all the young Americans to introduce them to the Heathens fans.
28th January 2005 : AGM Report
Club CH held an Annual General Meeting this week confirming the continuation of the supporters group for another year. While there continues to be little news on the site search for a permanent new stadium in the Black Country, there are positive signs of an expanding social calendar for Cradley fans wishing to stay in touch.
The main committee members were re-elected, led by Chairman Ian Shelton (Enock), and were joined by newcomers Nick Hawthorne (Butch) as well as Sophie Hill from the Heathens Track Shop. One anticipated change was announced for the near future, which sees many social events and meetings being moved a little closer to home for most people, to the Cradley Heath Labour Club in Graingers Lane. The first such date for your diary is a Quiz Night to be held at the venue on 10th March.
Coaches are also likely to leave from the Labour Club this season, and a selection of dates have been ear-marked for Club CH travel. Although fixtures are not yet known, it is hoped to run trips on 10th April, 30th May and 29th August in 2005, the latter two dates being Bank Holidays. The annual pilgrimage to the British Grand Prix in Cardiff will also be organised with at least one guaranteed coach. First priority bookings are available to Club CH members, with the possibility of a second coach depending on demand. A coach trip to Oxford is pencilled in for July with the expected Silver Machine signings of Greg Hancock and Billy Hamill (see Fans Forum for further discussion) and there will be a continuation of the successful recent video nights. More dates and events should be confirmed shortly.
20th August:- Premier League Stars Lead Heathens at Rye House
Club CH have pulled out all the stops to produce one of their strongest ever line-ups in preparation of their visit to Hoddesdon next Monday to take on Rye House in a 15-heat Conference League challenge match. Scheduled for the second successive year on August Bank Holiday Monday, the event is once again expected to attract a good crowd and the evenly matched teams should create some quality racing.
The Premier League's Isle of Wight star Scott Swain has been drafted in at number one to make his Heathens debut and he is solidly backed up by riders all capable of big scores at conference league level. Peter Boast and Paul Burnett return to the side for the first time this season. Boast was our highest scoring rider of 2000 and is the only surviving team member from the corresponding fixture last year where the Rockets were victorious 54-35. Burnett has made three previous appearances, scoring an impressive 7+1 on his debut at Mildenhall.
In Phil Knowles, Club CH welcome back one of their most regular team members - having made five appearances in the green and white race-jacket, while at reserve Newport's youngster Tom Brown only made his debut earlier this season in the 17-17 thriller at Wolves. The six confirmed riders are completed by the only other rider making his bow, Sheffield's Premier League reserve Adam Allot. He continues a very long family tradition with Cradley Heath after his grandfather Guy spent two seasons at Dudley Wood during 1951-52.
The number two berth is currently still to be filled but the line-up already has a formidable look about it. The match takes place on Monday 27th August, with tapes up at 3.00pm. For those who have not read the messages on the fans forum, there is a theme planned by a section of travelling supporters. In 'tribute' to the Rocket's somewhat unusual mascot (right), cardboard boxes will be optional headwear for Heathens supporters!
15th July:- Club CH Announce August Fixtures
After an unintended mid-season break, Club CH have announced their next two confirmed fixtures to take place during August.
On Saturday the 4th, the Heathens will travel to the hugely popular Premier League venue of Workington in Cumbria for a second half event. The 'Comets' regularly attract the best crowds in the league and even top the attendances of some Elite League tracks. A coach will run to the meeting, leaving Cradley Heath at 10am on Saturday morning and costing £12 per person.
That is followed by a Bank Holiday extravangaza on the 27th as the Heathens travel to take on Rye House in a full fifteen heat Conference League challenge match. The 'Rockets' ran out 54-35 victors when the two sides last met almost a year ago to the day in August 2000. The coach to this match also leaves at 10am for a 3 O'clock start and costs £10 each. The teams for both events are yet to be finalised.
2nd June:- Club CH in Determined Mood for Black Country Derby
Club CH travel to face neighbours and long-time Speedway rivals Wolverhampton next Monday night in determined mood, with a bigger Cradley Heath contingent expected to turn out at Monmore Green than for any other fixture this year.
The Heathens quartet has been named for the eagerly anticipated second half clash against the junior Wolves side and will be bolstered by the latest recruit in a string of talented youngsters to have turned out for the club. Teenager Tom Brown has impressed on two occasions against Club CH and he now faces a baptism of fire as the only new name in a settled Cradley side. He has just made his Premier League debut with a guest appearance for the Isle of Wight.
Brown will be joined by Dean Garrod, Mitch Barker and David Nix. All three are in their third season of competition for the new Heathens and are fully aware of the importance of the Black Country derby fixture, but it may well be Garrod who supporters will look to for a solid performance. No-one has made more appearances for Club CH since Cradley fans formed the club in 1999. He has made two appearances in four matches this year to add to his eight over the two previous seasons. He also has the extra experience of riding in the last clash between the two teams, scoring 4+2 on that occasion in August 1999 and rounding off the night with third place in the crucial last-heat decider to ensure a Heathens victory.
Meanwhile a great response has been received to the appeal for sponsors of the Ivor Hughes Memorial Meeting on 17th June. Club CH will stage the individual event at Mildenhall and have so far attracted over £550 in prize money, making it the best sponsored meeting in the Conference League so far this year. The club have invited Chris Shramm and Rob Finlow to join the 14 riders from the preceding Mildenhall v Boston match and would also like to place on record their thanks to Dingle Brown and Mildenhall Speedway for staging the event on the Heathens' behalf.
25th May:- Ivor Hughes Memorial at Mildenhall
Club Cradley Heath have announced that they will be staging an individual meeting next month with riders invited to compete for the Ivor Hughes Memorial Trophy. The event will take place at Mildenhall on 17th June after the Fen Tigers' promoter Dingle Brown agreed to hold the racing at the West Row track on the Heathens' behalf. The ten-heat meeting will take place following Mildenhall's Conference League clash with Boston and it is hoped that sixteen riders will be able to take part. Six of these will be representing Club CH on the day and the others will be invited from other Conference teams. The trophy commemorates the only rider ever to have been killed wearing a Cradley Heath race-jacket. Hughes was fatally injured in a track crash in August 1966 which makes this year the 35th anniversary of his untimely death. Known as 'the Welsh Wizard', he had made sensational progress at Dudley Wood and with the added investment in a new machine in '66, he was not only winning races but competing with the very best. Club CH are now looking for individuals or companies who would like to sponsor a heat in the match. It will be the second time the club have staged the trophy in three years. The last time was at Wolverhampton when Newport rider Chris Neath took the honours and a £100 first prize. Total prize money was over £500 on the night and it is hoped to at least equal that figure this year. Interested sponsors should contact the club on 07788 886 765.18th April:- Heathens Look Forward to Boston Challenge
After the Heathens four-man team narrowly lost out at Arena Essex despite the heroics of late stand-in, Matt Read, the club are now looking forward to this Sunday's full 15-heat encounter with Conference League Boston.
The second match of the season comes hot on the heels of the first, but a large following is expected to see an exciting looking Club CH side take on one of the most fancied teams in the lower league. Boston are almost using a squad rotation system at the moment with an abundance of talented riders battling for contention. Tipped for a recall this week is Freddie Stephenson, who will join Carl Wilkinson in the starting line-up. Both riders were in Cradley colours for the first ever Club CH match at Buxton almost two years ago.
Club CH will now be unable to use Somerset's Finnish international Jarno Kosonen as planned, due to a BSPA ruling regarding his eligibility. He will be replaced by 16 year old Kidderminster-based Rob Finlow. The local rider joins Malcolm Holloway - who is well over twice Finlow's age, plus future stars David McAllan, Darren Smith and Jamie Holmes in making Heathens debuts, while loyal stalwarts Mitch Barker and Dean Garrod fill the reserve slots.
Boston are once again racing their home fixtures at Kings Lynn's Norfolk Arena. The well established speedway venue always provides a super track, and is easily accessible from the A47. Take the exit marked St.Germans and turn onto Saddlebow Road, where you will see the stadium on the right. The meeting starts at 6.00pm and will be followed by a second half involving both clubs.
Check Latest Fixture List
11th April:- Arena Essex Match Preview
This Friday at last brings along the opening Club CH fixture of the season with a second half match at Arena Essex. It's time to dig out last year's collection of inflatable toys, pick up some cheap green and white balloons and tear up your newspapers into little squares!
The team (see below; 6th April) will be the first to wear the new Club CH race jackets for 2001 and the first Heathens team to take to the Purfleet track since a 49-47 Premier League defeat in 1995. This year's senior Hammers team includes ex-Heathen Troy Pratt and one of last year's Club CH stars, Luke Clifton.
If you're travelling to the match, the best plan seems to be to make a day of it, avoid the traffic and set out early to visit the massive Lakeside Shopping Centre which is situated only a couple of miles from the stadium. Just turn off the M25 at Junction 30/31 and follow signs for the A1306. The track itself is signposted, off the roundabout alongside Thurrock Serices. It'll cost you £9.50 to get in (including programme) to see Arena V Reading in the Premier Trophy, followed by the Arena v Club CH second half event. For more information on the club, visit www.arenaessex-speedway.co.uk and I'll see you on Friday!
6th April:- Video Night Success & Team for Arena
The recent video night organised by Club CH proved to be a huge success with over 100 people turning up for an evening of Heathens nostalgia.
Footage included a Birmingham v Cradley match from 1949, a rare recorded interview with Ivor Brown and of course the classic World Finals of 1981, 82 and 85. There was an update from CRASH spokesman Bob Edwards regarding PPG17 and it's effect on the Dudley Wood case (see latest news) and general feedback from the Club CH committee about future plans.
Amongst the news was the team to face Arena Essex next Friday in a second half junior match. Four riders have been named who all have experience riding for Club CH and will lead the Heathens faithful for our first match of 2001. The quartet is made up of David Nix, David Hartley, Welsh Wizard Gordon Meakins and teenager Charly Kirtland.
Further team news comes for the Boston match on the 22nd of this month with the headline of the first foreign international to ride for Club CH. Somerset's recent Finnish signing, Jarno Kosonen will turn out in the (new) green and white race jacket and seems likely to be joined by a heavy Somerset influence. The Rebels riders are waiting to get some action under their belts following the Foot and Mouth crisis which has delayed the start of the season at the Highbridge Arena. It is hoped to finalise the remaining members of the team over the next week for what will be a tough test against one of the most fancied Conference League outfits this year.
30th March:- Video Night: Wednesday 4th April
Club CH are presenting a special Video Night next Wednesday, at Cradley Heath Liberal Club - the regular venue on Bank Street just off the High Street.
The event features classic Heathens footage beginning in 1947, and taking a nostalgic trip through the 70s, 80s and 90s, right up to Club CH action from the last couple of years. It is the first social night of the new 2001 season for Cradley fans and comes just a couple of weeks before the first scheduled fixture.
Plans for the evening have been publicised recently by the Express & Star, News Group papers and the local Black Country Bugle, as well as Speedway Star magazine, so a good turn out is expected. The best news is that admission is absolutely FREE!
Meanwhile, Club CH signing Shane Colvin has now put pen to paper with another team for this season. As well as recently signing for the Newport Mavericks in the Conference League, he has returned to previous Premier League club Reading to complete the Racers 1-7. Colvin's extra professional commitments will, at best, mean extremely limited chances to turn out for the Heathens. The youngster had been pencilled into the team to face Boston on the 22nd April, but will now be riding for the Racers at Newport. It seems there's nothing like a bit of Cradley interest to kick start a career!
8th March:- Heathens Masses To Make Trip to British GP!
When the 2001 Grand Prix series rolls into Cardiff's Millennium Stadium on the 9th June, it will be British Speedway's biggest night for many years. So, not wanting to miss out on the prestigious event, Cradley fans have responded in their numbers to an organised block booking of tickets.
Club CH were delighted to receive orders for over 80 tickets at the AGM a couple of weeks ago - well in excess of what was expected - and the order was placed the following day to ensure the majority of Heathens fans will be seated together on the night.
The idea was first mooted on the Fans Forum here, and gradually gained momentum until there was enough interest to guarantee more fans than plenty of other areas of the country will provide. Chairman, Ian Shelton said "This shows that the support is very much alive six years after the loss of Dudley Wood and with the Club CH venture in a healthy state, Cradley Heath are very much in business".
Coach travel will be arranged closer to the date and a location will also be discussed to meet up with other Heathens fans who have purchased their own tickets or travelled separately.
2nd March:- Colvin signs for Newport
Shane Colvin, one of the riders recruited to the Club CH squad for this season, has been snapped up by Newport Mavericks in the Conference League.
Colvin broke into British Speedway as a highly promising youngster with Reading in 1999 and was given a starting place by the Racers last season. Despite increasing his assessed three point average, he was dropped at the start of August to accomodate the return of Dave Mullett.
Colvin has now moved to South Wales joins a highly respected Newport second team who won the league in '99 and finished 5th in 2000. The move gives him a better chance to fight for a Premier League return, whilst hopefully not affecting his appearances for the Heathens.
All Club CH riders will be turning out for us when their respective Conference fixtures allow and the stylish Colvin will be a massive boost to the ranks when in the team.
25th February:- News from the AGM
After a successful Annual General Meeting, the club are now looking forward to beginning their third consecutive season of action, but are still on the look out to attract new members and bring back old members who didn't renew last year.
The feedback from members was described by chairman Ian Shelton as "excellent" as the opportunity will be presented to Cradley fans to visit Elite and Premier venues as well as watching a Heathens team on track in the second half.
A squad of riders has already been assembled and the club have reached agreements with Gordon Meakins, David Nix, Mitch Barker, Shane Colvin, Charly Kirtland and David Hartley to appear when Conference League fixtures allow.
A small profit was made after last years expenses, due to being unable to fit in a final match late in the season. The decision was taken to use this excess to sponsor the 2001 Heathens riders with equal sums.
Finally a Video Night has been arranged for Wednesday 4th April with FREE admission. The usual venue is of course Cradley Heath Liberal Club and the event will kick off at 8.00pm.
21st February:- First 2001 Fixtures Confirmed!
Club CH have confirmed their first two fixtures of 2001 with a first visit to Arena Essex, and a return to face Boston at Kings Lynn.
The match against the junior Hammers will take place at Purfleet on the same bill as the Premier League encounter between Arena Essex and Reading on Good Friday, the 13th April. The Heathens will be involved in a second half clash after the main meeting.
The challenge against Conference League Boston will be a full 15-heat match at the Norfolk Arena where Club CH have lost twice in the last two seasons. The 7-man Heathens team to be assembled will have a tough job against the Braves, who are putting together are title-chasing team for the new season.
More news from Wednesday night's Annual General Meeting will be here shortly.
19th February:- Membership Recruitment + AGM
Club CH are ready to begin preparations for a third consecutive season of operation under the Conference-level racing banner. This season will provide fresh challenges, fixtures and venues in the drive to keep the Heathens name alive with a team on track for the supporters to follow. However, in order to finance the necessary resources for riders, travel and other arrangements, the club relies solely on membership and local sponsorship. Therefore a rallying call must be made now for club members - new and old - to renew their membership fees for 2001. Brand new members are more than welcome at a cost of just £5.00 per season, which includes a regular newsletter. Your money will be going directly to help keep the Heathens on the track and remind the Speedway public that we're still going, so tell your friends and your neighbours to join as well! Send cheques to Club CH at 24 Vale Road, Netherton, Dudley, West Mids, DY2 9HZ or enquiries to steven.johnson@bigfoot.com;
Alternatively, monies can be paid in person at the Club's AGM which takes place this Wenesday at Cradley Heath Liberal Club. If you also wish to join the Cradley trip to the British Grand Prix, then don't forget to bring the ticket money to the meeting as the block booking will be made on Thursday morning.
1st February:- AGM Committee Changes
Existing Club CH members should all have received a recent update letter in the post by now, including a reminder of both the forthcoming Annual General Meeting and the Block Booking for the British Grand Prix.
There have been two resignations from the Club CH commitee and therefore the two positions have been opened to nominations for the 2001 season. All members were notified and any nominations were invited before yesterday's closing date (31st Jan). All other committee members, including chairman Ian Shelton and secretary Nigel Nicklin, will be continuing for a third successive season organising the Club CH project.
Any proposals will now be open to discussion at the AGM which takes place on the 21st February at Cradley Heath Liberal Club. Anyone wishing to book GP tickets can now reserve their seat either by email to me, by post before the 16th February to Club CH at 24 Vale Road, Netherton, Dudley, West Mids, DY2 9HZ, or in person on the night of the AGM. Tickets for the selected area of the Millenium Stadium are priced at £29 each.
18th January:- Date Set for AGM + British GP Booking
Club CH have confirmed that the 3rd Annual General Meeting of the supporters-based organisation will take place on Wednesday 21st February at Cradley Heath Liberal Club. The usual venue, on Bank Street just off Cradley Heath High Street, will welcome Club CH members for a start of 8.00pm. Although the first half of the evening is for existing members only, the second half will be thrown open to all fans and will hopefully include a latest news update from CRASH regarding the Dudley Wood situation.
This seasons membership fees can also be paid on the night. The cost for 2001 is £5.00 (normal) or £25.00 (gold members). Remember, all your support is invaluable in keeping the club alive even more so now than ever. The season ahead will include a Heathens return to a host of venues, several of which will be new to the Club CH bandwagon.
Also at the AGM will be the opportunity to book your place in the 'Cradley section' for the British Grand Prix at Cardiff on 9th June this year. Tickets must be paid for on the night and will be ordered on the 22nd February - the following day. If any web site visitors cannot make it to the AGM and would like to arrange to secure their seats through me then contact me via email. We also hope to arrange a meeting place in the city of Cardiff, details of which will be decided nearer the date.
24th December 2000 - Future Stars emerge
Looking back on the season 2000, Club CH followers have once again been able to watch some of the countrys future stars in action. The exciting Luke Clifton turned out twice for the Heathens and is now being lined up as a possible Premier League reserve for Arena Essex. Fans favourite, Carl Wilkinson is also pushing for a PL berth now while club skipper Neil Painter is being considered by Stoke. Painter helped the Potters out this season and with new machinery in the garage, he is now waiting anxiously for a call from the Loomer Road promoters.
Ex-Club CH riders have also fared well this year with Mark Steel the prime example. A huge hit with Heathens fans, Mark was given a PL chance with Swindon and made an equally big impression with the Robins, turning them into Championship contenders and finishing with an average of around five and a half.
Another popular figure from 99 was Aidian Collins, son of ex-Heathen, Les. Aidian couldn't ride for Club CH in 2000 because of a move up to Premier League Glasgow, and after a successful debut season, he has joined his father as the first two contracted names on Glasgow's team sheet for 2001.
26th November 2000 - Rider of the Year.
Gordon Meakins was voted rider of the season on Saturday night with a good turnout at the End of Year Party Night.
The "Welsh Wizard" won by a country mile after a much improved season and ever increasing loyalty to the club.
The Heathens also announced the bulk of the team for 2001. The main 5 riders will be - Gordon Meakins, Mitch Barker, David Nix, Charly Kirtland and Premier League rider Shane Colvin.
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21st November 2000 - Club CH to visit Elite and Premier Venues!
Following the general meeting called for Cradley fans last week, it
seems highly likely that the Club CH project will extend to next season -
with a few significant changes.
It has been proposed that the club should run in 2001 at a lower level
than Conference League racing. During the past two years, we have been
relying solely on Conference clubs to fit us into their schedule for full
challenge matches. The new set-up would see the introduction of 8-heat
matches, raced at Elite and Premier league venues, as a second half after
the main meeting. In addition, it is hoped that the Heathens could be
represented mainly by a squad of about five of our own riders, instead of
borrowing a whole team from other clubs.
The matches would generally be at venues within an hour away in midweek,
or further away at weekends and bank holidays. It is also planned to
extend to a couple of full 15-heat matches at our most welcoming hosts so
far such as Buxton and Mildenhall.
As a final reminder, the end of season party and presentation takes place
this Saturday. See below for details. More news on the 2001 season to
follow shortly.
15th November 2000 - General Meeting
There is a General Meeting on 15th November at Cradley Heath Liberal Club, Bank Street at 8.00pm. All members and none members are welcome.
The purpose of this meeting is to test the reaction of the supporters and to decide where Club CH goes from here.
Tickets will be on sale for the forthcoming end of season party and disco at Haden Hill Leasure Centre these are priced at £5.00(ukp) including buffet.
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25th October 2000 - Contenders for Rider of the Year
With voting for the Club CH Rider of the Season scheduled for the General Meeting on the 15th November (see below), here we preview the main contenders for the award.
Peter Boast led the Heathens on three occasions this season against Buxton, Mildenhall and Rye House. His 7.73 average is the best of all the riders who competed in two or more matches for us. The figure is bumped up by a 12 point maximum at Hi-Edge but knocked down again by a 5+1 at the Fortress Hoddesdon.
Gordon Meakins rode mostly from reserve or second string, stepping up to Number One only for the weakened challenge against Southampton. However, the Welshman must be one of the most improved riders of the season after he helped the Heathens' launch last year. With new equipment and a squad place with the Peterborough Pumas, Meakins has added some notable points scoring ability to his very creditable loylaty, lifting his Heathens average from 2.50 to 5.88.
Dean Garrod was transferred to Boston for this season after struggling to find his previous form last year at Mildenhall. In many ways, like Meakins, he epitomises what Club CH is all about. Not a big scorer, but always loyal and did chalk up some very useful points in his four appearances and maintained his steady 5.00 average.
Derek Harrison only joined the ranks for the last two matches but became an instant hit with his lovable leg-trailing style and the first ex-Heathen to also turn out for Club CH. 'The Bouncer' Mitch Barker is considered another founder member, and he extended his association with the club with another three matches this year. His 4.80 average represented an increase of more than 2.50 points on last season. Carl Wilkinson and David Nix deserve special mentions for their averages of 6.55 and 6.29 respectively, as both competed in two matches for the club. And finally, theres Charly Kirtland who also made two appearances and became the first female to ride for us.
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13th October 2000 - October update
With no on-track action for some time now, the Club CH season is
drawing to a close. A General meeting has been organised for Wednesday
15th November 8pm at Cradley Heath Liberal Club. This is intended to see
where we go from here and what reaction is forthcoming from supporters.
There will also be a vote for the 2000 Rider of the Year, ahead of the
award presentation later in the month.
Saturday 25th November is the scheduled date for the end of season party
and disco, at Haden Hill Leisure Centre from 8.00pm. Tickets are priced at
#5.00(ukp) and will be on sale at the general meeting. More details and a
reminder of both events will be on here closer to the dates.
The possibility of one last match at St Austell did arise, but was not
followed up due to the late October date, unreliable weather and
unavailability of riders. The Gulls were very keen to have us back after a
successful crowd in the same fixture last season, but the logistics
unfortunately prevented it.
Apologies for the lack of latest news on the Club CH pages but I'm sure
you will understand it is an awkward time of year, especially for a club
in our situation. Anyone with ideas for getting the site through the
Winter months is welcome to get in touch!!
12th September 2000 - Conference League Riders Final.
The Conference League Riders Championship was won by Newport Mavericks'
Scott Pegler after a run-off with Steve Bishop of St Austell. Third place
went to Sheffield's PL reserve Adam Allott
It seems there was much less restrictions against the "old hands" of the
Conference League than there was for allowing a representative from Club
Cradley Heath. Further down the scorers can be found Ian Barney (39 yrs, 5
pts) and Rob Hollingworth (44 yrs, 2pts). Without anything against any
particular rider, it seems unfortunate that a younger up and coming rider
could not have been given a chance to compete in a meeting like this,
whilst also helping the cause of Cradley Heath and everything Club CH
stands for.
Some friends of Club CH did appear in the final for their repsctive clubs
including Carl Wilkinson (Boston, 8 pts), Paul Burnett (Buxton, 3 pts) and
Chris Schramm (Pboro, 2 pts)
8th September 2000 - News in brief.
News in brief: The Conference League Riders Championship goes ahead
this Sunday at Newport, but Club CH will definitely not have a rider
representative. Despite some talks about entering a Club CH rider, the
league decided it was not in the best interests as we are not a league
club. Note however, that Jonathan Swales is in the line-up although not
riding for any club at all, purely as he is defending champion.
With regard to the rest of this season, there are currently no scheduled
Club CH matches although it is still hoped that another fixture can be
arranged, with Sheffield a possible venue should they have a free date.
25th August 2000 - Team Line-Up to Face Rye House next Monday!
The seven riders faced with the daunting task of taking on Rye House at Hoddesdon next Monday have now been announced, and it is experience that is the order of the day. Sheffield asset Peter Boast will captain and lead the side, backed up by regulars Dean Garrod & Mitch Barker, comeback man Derek Harrison, plus Jamie Smith, Chris Schramm and Steve Mildoon. Harrison put in a fine performance on his Heathens return at Buxton, ironically beaten only by Schramm. Mildoon has made one previous Club CH appearance at Mildenhall and Smith will be a useful addition with some Premier League experience behind him at high-flying Hull.
Although Rye House are no longer contending with the havoc of Stock Car racing at their circuit, the tight new-look speedway track is still coming in for some criticism. Away teams have struggled to make an impact and big home wins have been regular occurrences. The Heathens are fired up and ready to change all that though on Bank Holiday Monday (28th) with a feast of entertainment on display. A charity Greyhound meeting takes place at 11am on the morning of the match, followed by the Speedway action at 4pm. As well as the Rockets-Heathens challenge, there is a Girls Challenge Cup, featuring among others, 'our' Charley Kirtland, plus some 1928 and 1930 demonstration races.
I'm told that coach places are still available. I also have some fairly detailed directions which I can forward by e-mail if anyone is interested. A big crowd is expected and the day has been well advertised; admission is £7 for the speedway, so come and support the Heathens and make sure we put on a show both on and off-track!
15th August 2000 - Rockets in Flying Form!
Next opponents for Club CH are the recently reformed Rye House Rockets and the Hoddesdon team are just hitting top form. The club returned to their former home this season with the financial backing of Len Silver, and have recently taken over the lease of the stadium to make the move a permanent one. Stock Cars which have hampered progress of maintaining a quality racing surface have now come to an end, and the new-look circuit is in better shape than ever. However, visiting teams are still very much struggling to make an impact against the Flying Rockets.
The latest attempt was by the Peterborough Pumas, featuring Heathens favourites Gordon Meakins and Derek Harrison. They were crushed 64-26 as home star David Mason stormed to a 15 point maximum and lowered his own track record no less than FIVE times! Meakins failed to score for the visitors while Harrison notched 5+1 from reserve.
The Cradley team is still to be finalised for the eagerly anticipated Bank Holiday clash, but the task ahead is obvious. Previous Club CH regular, Steve Camden, would have been an obvious candidate for selection but is still suffering the effects of an injury which has curtailed his season for Mildenhall in the Conference League. Rye House currently lie 6th in the table with an unbeaten home record. The Club CH committee have the 'luxury' of putting together a 1-7 aimed at lowering the Rockets colours for the first time and it is hoped to be able to announce the riders this weekend. For information on coach travel as usual contact Margaret on 01384 823508.
Club CH have organised a General Knowledge Quiz Night for two weeks time on Wednesday 23rd August. The event will be at the usual venue of Cradley Heath Liberal Club and funds will help to fund the account for running the Conference matches this season.
Teams can consist of between 2 and 5 players, at a bargain cost of £1.00 per person. Be there for 7.30 for an 8.00 start and bring some friends along too!
Couple of dates to ink into your speedway diaries; Club CH have managed to secure an enticing Bank Holiday Monday clash with Rye House for the 28th August. The Rockets are back at their spiritual home of Hoddeston, with Len Silver having now secured the stadium lease. The meeting has a 4pm afternoon start, and more details will be here soon. Make another note while you're at it for the next Speedway Quiz night, coming up on Wednesday 23rd August at Cradley Heath Liberal Club.
With just a few days to go before the historical Heathens v Saints clash (see below), I understand that the travelling Cradley coach is already full. If you need directions to Buxton for the 30 heats of speedway, then e-mail me for details.
Its Club Cradley Heath versus Southampton next Sunday (6th Aug) and a nostalgic return to Heathens colours for Derek Harrison (pictured, right). The meeting, running at Buxton directly after the Hitmen take on Mildenhall in the Conference League, represents the first clash of the two clubs since 1951.
The Saints line-up is of a slightly lower level than current Conference clubs, and the top league stars have been omitted from the meeting to reflect this standard. The Heathens will be led by the dependable Gordon Meakins, who warmed up with 9+1 for Peterborough last week. Also returning for her second appearance in the green and white is 15-year old girl-racer Charley Kirtland.
Harrison last rode for Cradley in 1980, making around a dozen official appearances, including nine points in a Dudley-Wolves Trophy match. He made his racing comeback this season with Peterborough but has since been squeezed out as the Panthers have strengthened their ranks further.
The full Heathens line-up for the encounter is, in riding order, Meakins, Carl Downes, David Nix, Mitch Barker, Harrison, Kirtland & Mike Pickering.
Next on the agenda for the Club CH tour bus is a second trip of the season to the Peak District and the little venue of Buxton. This time around though, the Heathens are taking on the newly reformed Southampton Saints - a team also without a home track, but endeavouring to bring the sport back to the New Forest area of the South coast. So make a date for the 6th August for a great value afternoon of Speedway, beginning at 3pm with Buxton's Conference League encounter against Mildenhall and continuing with 15 heats of Heathens versus Saints straight afterwards.
For information on coach travel, contact Margaret on 01384 823508 (evenings), or for details of directions by car, e-mail the site and we'll point you the right way.
Meanwhile, in the Conference League, the Heathens' Boston connection have been in mighty good form for the Barracuda-Braves. Against Ashfield and Sheffield in the last ten days, Luke Clifton notched 6+2 followed by 9+1, while Carl Wilkinson dropped to reserve to clock up 14+1 and 7+1. Against the Prowlers it was Clifton who secured a 45-45 draw on the last bend of heat 15.
Recalled to the Peterborough side last week was Welsh Wizard Gordon Meakins and potential Club Cradley Heathen, Derek Harrison, but their meeting was cut short by rain after ten heats. Not turning out much for the Heathens lately, but riding well for his Hitmen team is captain Neil Painter. He's also dropped to reserve and scored a paid max against Ashfield, followed by 7+2 against Sheffield.
After the recent Club CH defeat at Somerset, the LP Heathens now turn their attentions to repeating last season's victory at West Row, Mildenhall. The trip comes this Sunday - 2nd July - which will hopefully mean better weather than the corresponding fixture in 1999 which only just avoided postponement due to an onslaught of constant rain.
The team has been finalised and will be led by Boston's Peter Boast who notched a 12-point maximum in his previous Cradley appearance at Buxton. His Barracudas team mates Luke Clifton and Carl Wilkinson have also proved their worth in green and white, and complete a formidable heatleader trio. They're backed by skipper Neil Painter, Paul Burnett, regular Heathen Dean Garrod and the Camaerthan Cowboy Gordon Meakins.
If you haven't seen Club CH this year, then make the effort for this one. Mildenhall is home to a great race track in a very neat little stadium, and the return to a Sunday afternoon fixture should make for another great Summer day out to keep the Cradley flag flying. If you want to travel with the Heathens coach then you can contact Margaret as usual on 01384 823508. The racing starts at 3.30pm.
Full provisional line-up: Peter Boast, Paul Burnett, Carl Wilkinson, Neil Painter, Luke Clifton, Gordon Meakins, Dean Garrod.
Club Cradley are eagerly waiting their first trip to Somerset's Oak Tree Arena on Friday 16th June (7.30pm). The LP Heathens are sure to get another healthy following of fans for the visit to Britains newest stadium.
The Heathens line up for the match is begining to look like our own lads once again as the match doesn't clash with other Conference League matches on this occasion. We will be led by Steve Camden who is scoring so well at this level lately, our old friend Deano Garrad, Carl Wilkinson who we almost regard as our own boy now with Neil Painter who has stuck with us from day one. Young Luke Clifton is with us again and our 'old hands' Mitch Barker and Gordon Meakins.
It looks like being a good night out again and as usual anyone who wishes to travel with the club will have to be quick and get in touch with Margaret Hardiman on (01384) 823508 (evenings).
If you are travelling by car be sure to start out early, the traffic on the M5 on Fridays can be a problem. You can find the track from Junction 22 - follow the slip road turn left towards Highbridge past the Windmill Club at Edithmead on left. When you reach W.S.Hancock Turf Supplies on left turn into Stadium Road into car-park.
See you there, lets party!
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1999 Rider of the Season, Mark Steel had a rollercoaster week
for Premier League club Swindon as he continues to make his
mark for the Robins. He recorded his first paid maximum at PL
level with a fantastic 9+3 haul against Arena-Essex last Thursday.
Club CH fans can imagine the post match celebtrations by the Boy
of Steel - I hear he was rather pleased with his heat 14 surge from
the back to round off his tally!
Unfortunately, the good news was tempered by a nasty fall away at
Stoke on Saturday. Mark collided with Potters' Tony Atkin in heat
eight and was taken to hospital with a hand injury. Latest reports
are that he may now lose the tip of his thumb as far down as the
length of his nail.
Mark has recently decided to concentrate solely on his Premier
League commitments and has withdrawn from the Boston
Conference League team, where he had dominated the Barracudas
scoring in the early matches of the season. We naturally wish him
all the best for a speedy recovery and quick return to the
saddle.
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As Club CH supporters look forward to the next match a week on Sunday and the return to the Hi-Peaks of Buxton, there were unexpected Heathens links in th Conference League at Peterborough last week. When the Pumas pipped Rye House to a 46-44 victory, who should be named as home reserves but Gordon Meakins - our current Welsh Wizard - and former Cradley rider Derek Harrison. Gordon scored paid three ahead of his inclusion in our forthcoming team to face Buxton. Harrison notched an impressive 5+1 on his racing return, after several years absence. He rode for the Heathens in 1980 and also had more successful spells in the second division with Milton Keynes (alongside Andy Grahame), Mildenhall & Peterborough.
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The next Club CH fixture is at Buxton on May 28th 2000 where the Club CH team will be, in riding order: 1 Peter Boast, 2 Jamie Young, 3 Carl Wilkinson, 4 Dean Garrod, 5 Andrew Moore, 6 Lee Hodgson, 7 Gordon Meakins. The heavy Sheffield contingent will be joined by Heathens regulars in Garrod, Wilkinson & Meakins, but there will be extra innterest in the promising young Owlertonn Prowlers. Andy Moore has been pushing for a PL place for some time, while I can speak first hand of the potential shown by Lee Hodgson so far inn 2000.
The action starts at 3.00pm and coach travel is available from the
Cradley area as always by phoning Margaret on 01384 823508.
N.B. Anyone who would like to sponsor a Club CH racejacket this season can do so for £50.00 payable in two installments £25.00 now and £25.00 at the end of the season. Please contact Club CH at 24 Vale Road, Netherton, Dudley, West Midlands, DY2 9HZ.
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Club CH have announced two more confirmed fixtures for the
Summer, including a nostalgic match against the recently reformed
Southampton Saints.
After success at Mildenhall last year on a rain-soaked afternoon,
the Heathens will be hoping for better weather as they return to
West Row on Sunday 2nd July. The Fen Tigers have already
established themselves as a Conference League force in 2000, led
by Cradley stars Steve Camden and Phil Knowles.
The match against Southampton has been arranged to take place
at Buxton on the 6th August, as the Saints are in the same
position as us with no home track. The promise of excellent value
for money at our closest Conference League track ensues though
as the Hitmen take on Midlenhall at 3pm with the full 15-heat Club
CH - So'ton match following immediately afterwards.
It is also hoped to stage the Dudley-Wolves trophy against a junior
Wolves side at Monmore Green later in the season. The young
Heathens stormed to victory in last years encounter and the match
should also see the second staging of the Ivor Hughes Individual
Memorial Trophy.
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April 24th 2000
Heathens have sorted out any problems with Buxton over the use of the Hitmen for Club CH matches. Chairman Ian Shelton said "We spoke to them prior to the season and after a discussion last week we have corrected any confusion". Buxton team manager Jack Lee still insists that his riders will not be allowed to compete in challenge matches the day before they are due out for the Hitmen ...
New Conference League entrants, Somerset have a Control Board track inspection this weekend, as they continue to work towards bringing Speedway to a brand new venue this season. Heathens are due to visit the Rebels on 16th June ...
Conquerors of Club CH already this season, Boston, enjoyed an away victory at Peterborough last Friday, despite missing the services of Premier League Mark Steel. Luke Clifton top scored with 12+2, while our friends Carl Wilkinson and Dean Garrod notched up 5 and 9 respectively ....
Please note a new e-mail address to get in touch with me now. Send any comments about the site or any other communication about the Heathens to steven.johnson@bigfoot.com - if you write and don't get a reply, then I haven't received your message!
James Mann, injured in our opening match at Boston last Saturday, has been diagnosed with a chipped shoulder bone. The Buxton rider, who left the track with a suspected broken collar bone, is likely to be out for around three weeks. A quick trackside collection raised just under £80 ukp for the youngster and we wish him all the best for a speedy recovery.
Skipper Neil Painter, who missed the Boston defeat to ride for Glasgow at Berwick, scored 4+1 from his three rides in the Tigers 60-30 defeat. Other former Club CH stars of '99, Aiden Collins and Freddie Stephenson scored 2+2 and 7+2 respectively. Both have made highly successfuly starts to their first full Premier League seasons.
April 4th 2000 -
News in brief... Mark Steel's wrist injury suffered last weekend, seems to be just bruising. Indiciations are that no bones were broken, but the Boston rider did also suffer facial injuries. His Boston (and Club CH) team-mate Luke Clifton came out of the same meeting with rib and elbow damage. Again, it seems that there are no broken bones but Luke may have chipped a bone in his elbow.
April 3rd 2000 -
Boston - Club CH opponents for this coming Saturday - had a
nightmare start to their 2000 season over last weekend.
Not only was it a double-defeat at the hands of local rivals
Mildenhall, but the Lincolnshire club also suffered injuries to two
key riders - both familar to Heathens fans. The ever-improving
Mark Steel picked up an arm injury and new Club CH recruit Luke
Clifton ended up with damaged ribs. Both were due to ride for their
club against the Heathens this weekend so we await further news
on their condition. One of our heatleaders for Saturday night, Steve
Camden, top scored for Mildenhall in the second leg, while young
Carl Wilkinson notched 9 at home for the Barracuda-Braves.
Meanwhile, in other news, you can add the date of Friday 16th
June to your diaries for the Heathens' first ever visit to the home of
the Somerset Rebels. A new Fixtures & Results page will be
added next week to make sure you stay up to date througout the
season.
March 29th 2000 -
The Club CH committee have finalised the first team of the new
season to face Boston a week on Saturday at the Norfolk Arena
(Kings Lynn). Skipper Neil Painter leads the LP Heathens again
as they face a tough opening test against the Barracudas who
include Mark Steel, Carl Wilkinson, Peter Boast and Luke Clifton in
their own line-up. The Heathens will be relying on the experience
of Steve Camden who served us well in '99 along with Buxton's
'Hitmen', Paul Burnett and James Mann. Mark Blackwell is drafted
back into the squad for the first time since last seasons opening
fixture and David Nix makes his first full appearance after riding in
the D&H Autos four team tournament last June. The line-up is
completed by Phil Knowles who will be a potent reserve force,
judging by his four previous appearances in the CH team.
The full riding order is as follows: 1: N.Painter, 2: P.Burnett, 3:
J.Mann, 4: M.Blackwell, 5: S.Camden, 6: D.Nix, 7: P.Knowles.
The action starts at 7.30pm and coach travel is available from the
Cradley area as always by phoning 01384 823508 .
March 20th 2000 -
The first Club CH appearance of the year is now drawing ever-
closer, and the three riders who will lead the LP Heathens into
2000 have been confirmed. As you may have read on the Fans
Forum, two of last year's favourites Neil Painter and Carl Wilkinson
will be joined by Boston younsgter Luke Clifton, in the side to open
up Billy Hamill's testimonial at Coventry this Sunday (March 26th,
1.30pm). Clifton will be staking his claim to become a regular for
the Club Cradley matches this season as he has been added to
the main pool of riders along with the experienced Peter Boast, and
the talented Buxton youngster, Paul Burnett. They will provide
some useful support to some of the continuing riders who turned
out in the green and white last season, and it is hoped to announce
most of the team to face Boston on April 8th very soon.
Elsewhere in the Conference League, Somerset have begun the
massive task of building their track from scratch in time for the
Summer, and have signed ex-CL riders champ, Steve Bishop to
boost their resources, from under the noses of Southern opponents
St Austell. Sheffield have announced nine dates for Conference
matches in 2000, but all of these are currently required for league
fixtures only....And congratulations to our Rider of the Season '99 - Mark Steel -
on securing his big step up to the Premier League this week. The
Boy of Steel has signed for Swindon to fill their vacant number
seven slot, and we wish him all the best for the coming
season.
March 11th 2000 - First fixture confirmed!
Its an earlier than expected start to the season for Cradley fans, with the confirmation this week of the LP Heathens first full fixture for 2000...
Following the appearance in a junior challenge preceding Billy Hamill's testimonial meeting at Coventry on March 26th, Club CH will face the new BOSTON Barracuda-Braves two weeks later. The match will take place on SATURDAY 8th APRIL at Kings Lynn's Norfolk Arena (formerly Saddlebow Road stadium).
It will be a tough start to the campaign of matches for our lads as the Barracudas include the familiar names of Mark Steel, Carl Wilkinson & Dean Garrod in the newly formed squad. Riders for the Club CH team will be announced here as soon as they are available, along with coach travel details from Cradley Heath.
March 6th 2000
The search for the Heathens squad of 2000 has now officially
commenced! With almost all of last season's riders still eligible to
compete in the Conference League, it is hoped that the team will
retain a familiar element for the Club CH fans, as well as a new
dimension from some incoming additions.
However, two of the '99 bunch - Aidan Collins & Freddie
Stephenson - have already secured new Premier League berths
with Glasgow and Berwick respectively, and with the Tigers riding
on Sundays it seems unlikely that Aidan will be regularly available
for us.
It is hoped that last years riders will be as keen as ever to turn out
for the Heathens, although its fully appreciated that their parent
clubs obviously take first priority. In addition, the club would
welcome any new riders wanting to gain some extra experience in
the famous green & white, and can be contacted by phone on
07788 886765 or by e-mail at the usual address -
steven.johnson@bigfoot.com ... news on any signings will be here
as soon as its announced.
February 28th 2000
Club CH are holding a fundraising disco this Friday night at
Cradley Heath Liberal Club in Bank Street, Cradley Heath. The
theme will be 60s and 70s with proceeds as usual helping to boost
the fund for the Heathens' Conference challenge matches in 2000.
The start time is 8pm.
Meanwhile with the Conference League sorting itself out, Heathens
fans will be looking ahead to fixtures for the coming season. It is
expected that Buxton & Mildenhall will be able to accomodate us
again, along with newcomers Somerset who have been given
planning permission for 30 meetings this year. Other clubs such
as Peterborough, Boston, Rye House, Newport & St Austell may
have a problem with a lack of Sunday dates, but Sheffield could be
running some of their CL meetings on free Sundays at Owlerton in
the Summer.
February 21st 2000 - Sponsors & Membership Appeal!
The Heathens have received a welcome boost with the news
that main sponsors, L.P.Transport will continue to back the Club
CH team in 2000. In addition, Beaconsfield Products have also
pledged their continued support, further to their involvement in
1999. The club committee will now concentrate on attracting a
similar level of sponsorship to last season where every meeting
was backed.
There is also an ongoing appeal for new & old members. The club
attracted sufficient funds in 1999 to cover all costs and make a
small profit, thanks largely to the invaluable combination of
sponsorship and supporters membership. It costs just £3.00 to
help keep the Heathens name alive, or £25.00 to offer your support
as a gold member. Existing members are asked to renew their
membership now, and its not too late to join and do your bit. You
don't even have to be a Cradley fan, just a like-minded speedway
enthusiast! Send cheques made payable to Club CH, 24, Vale Road, Netherton, Dudley, West Midlands DY2 9HZ or e-mail me for more
details.
February 12th 2000
The Conference League AGM took place this week and the major result was the increased membership to ten teams. The competition in 2000 will still involve one home and away match against every other club and the participating ten are: Boston, Buxton, Linlithgow, Mildenhall, Newport, Peterborough, Rye House, Sheffield, Somerset & St Austell.
Belle Vue could not agree a reduced rent figure with their stadium landlords and Southampton have been unable to secure a home track of their own. Preliminary discussions have already taken place with many promoters with regards to organising fixtures for Club CH. With league matches a priority though, it is unlikely that any dates can be confirmed in the forseeable future.
The one existing date however is Billy Hamill's testimonial in which the Heathens will definitely compete in a four team tournament against the Coventry Bees, with Peterborough and Wolves likely to make up the line-up.
February 6th 2000
Billy Hamill's testimonial commitee have confirmed that Club CH will be competing in a junior challenge tournament as part of the afternoon's entertainment at Brandon on March 26th. The event is scheduled to take place before the main riders event, and more details will be here on the site as the date approaches. Meanwhile, Club Cradley Heath have announced that Essex-based Chris Dawson will continue as team manager for match days this season. Chris, a popular figure among fans, is an ex-Heathens junior team manager, and guideded the young CH stars in 1999.
January 30th 2000
Another major signing for the new-look Boston team sees our
Club CH rider of the year, Mark Steel, become the latest addition
to the Norfolk-based club. The talented teenager and former
Coventry mascot joins our friend Carl Wilkinson among others
already confirmed for the Barracuda-Braves, after spending 1999
with Buxton. Theres no rush for team planning in the Heathens
camp as once again no riders will be tied exclusively to the
club.
Meanwhile, a meeting of prospective Conference League clubs is
scheduled for the 6th February, where it is expected that several
new clubs may enter the 2000 league. Sheffield have confirmed
their intention to run and have already begun team building, while
other possibilities remain including the likes of Somerset, if they
achieve planning permission, and Belle Vue, if they can agree a
rental deal for the stadium. It provides the prospect of some new
teams for the Club CH entourage to visit this season to add to the
successful meetings of last year.
January 23rd 2000
With plans well underway for Billy Hamill's 10 year testimonial
at Coventry on March 26th, Club CH are proud to have been invited
to join in the Brandon celebration at the start of this season. One
of the meeting organisers, Craig Cummings, has approached the
Club Cradley committee to ask if they will compete in a mini-match
at some stage during the afternoon's proceedings.
No firm plans have been decided at the moment, but Billy is keen
to have Club CH involved, and it will be an added attraction for the
many Cradley supporters who are intending on making the journey
to Coventry for the day.
Meanwhile, on the rider front, Heathens fans' favourite of 1999 Carl
Wilkinson has signed for the new Boston Conference League team.
The Barracuda-Braves will be riding their home matches at Kings
Lynn's Norfolk Arena track in 2000 with a view to returning the sport
to Boston in 2001. We wish Carl all the best but also hope to
see him back in our green and white as soon as possible.
January 17th 2000
The decision was made at the recent Annual General Meeting
for Club CH to carry on in 2000 as we were last season. That means
more fixtures for the Cradley fans to attend this year, but as
expected, no intention to enter the Conference League due to the
increased cost.
Over 120 members attended the AGM to see the full committee of
1999 all re-elected. However this means that there are another 170
members from last season who didn't attend, but will hopefully
continue to support the project by renewing their membership. New
members are also welcome, at the cost of £3.00 (normal) or £25.00
(gold membership). Last year the club attracted an income of
£8,000 from membership and fund-raising, of which £7,000 was
spent during the season.
Plans will now be put in place to attract at least a similar level of
sponsorship as in 1999 where every meeting was individually
sponsored. A new team line-up will also need to be constructed with
several of last years riders moving on to the Premier League.
Further developments will appear here regularly as the count down
to the season begins.
January 14th 2000
The Annual General Meeting for Club CH will be held on Sunday 16th January at Cradley Heath Liberal Club, Bank Street, Cradley Heath. This will be followed by a general update from Bob Edwards on behalf of CRASH. The first part of the evening will be for members only and will run until 9pm, while the second part is open to all.
Any members wishing to renew their membership and unable to attend, or anyone who would like to join for the first time in 2000 can do so by post. Send a cheque or postal order for £3.00 ukp (or £25.00 ukp for gold members), made payable to Club CH, to the following address: 24 Vale Road, Netherton, Dudley, West Midlands, DY2 9HZ. Alternatively, e-mail me for more details.
1999 articles
December 1999
The second Annual General Meeting of Club Cradley Heath will be held early in 2000 to decide on the best course of action for the new season. Options range from the financially hazardous application to join the conference league to not running any team at all, but the more likely route seems to be to continue with the same setup as in 1999. News will appear here as and when it is available.
Meanwhile, Buxton's Mark Steele was voted Rider of the Year for 1999. He was presented with his award at the end of season celebration, and was joined by runner-up Aidan Collins plus five more Club CH riders from the first year of racing.
The Conference League organisers and the BSPA have confirmed that Club Cradley Heath will be allowed a representative in the forthcoming Conference League Riders Championship. The even takes place this Saturday night at Mildenhall and the Heathens colours will be worn by Phil Knowles, who has ridden for Club CH on three occasions so far.
Phil started the season with the Fen Tigers and is a track specialist at the West Row circuit. As he is not currently contracted to any Conference League club though, he will be allowed to represent Club Cradley, even though we do not have an official team in the league. Six of the seven CL teams all have two riders each in the final, with hosts Mildenhall taking three places and the final spot is filled by Knowles.
The former Belle Vue rider has been struggling with machinery lately, but if he can get his bikes sorted out, he will surely be in with as good a chance as anyone in the field. Meanwhile, the Club CH squad is in action the following day at Kings Lynn. Its been four years since the Heathens last visited the recently renamed Norfolk Arena (formerly Saddlebow Road stadium), but another good following of supporters is expected to take up the usual Heathens position on the terraces.
Once again, as for every match this year, a coach has been filled and many cars will be making the journey to keep the fantastic level of support going. The tie could well be the penultimate meeting of the 1999 season for Club CH with one more fixture hopefully to be announced in September. Match report for the Norfolk Braves versus the Heathens will appear on the site early next week.
Its the big one! This is the match which we all wanted to see when the Club CH tour rolled into action earlier in the season. Its the return of one of the deadliest rivalries in British Speedway. The Dudley-Wolves trophy is back and taking place this Monday at Monmore Green.
It may be at Conference Level, but that hasn't stopped the Cradley fans following the team in numbers around the country so far. As Club chairman, Ian Shelton said "If we took 100 to St Austell and 150 to Mildenhall, how many are we going to take to Monmore Green?". It promises to be a great nights action at a bargain speedway price, and featuring a bumper feast of racing.
Following the Dudley-Wolves trophy match, which will be run over a 13 heat traditional formula, there will be the Ivor Hughes Memorial trophy to remember the rider who lost his life riding for the Heathens.
The first half of the evening will decide the destination of the fiercely contested Black Country prize which the Heathens had a hold on throughout the nineties before the Wolves nabbed it in the last contest in 1996. This year, Cradley have shown their hand first and named the team which will be gunning to bring back the coveted title.
Flying the Green and White flag on track will be Club CH captain Neil Painter, partnered at number two by Aidan Collins, son of former Heathen Les. Ex-wolf Simon Wolstenholme, Mildenhall captain 'Deano' Garrod and the impressive comeback man Steve Camden make up a formidable looking top five. And they're backed up solidly by reserves Phil Knowles and Mark Steele. All seven riders have already turned out for Club CH at some stage this year, so you can check out their records on the
Club CH News Archive
11th May 2004 : Club CH Quiz Night (Wed 19th May 2004)
Club CH, now operating as a Cradley Heath Speedway Supporters Club, are holding a Quiz Night on Wednesday 19th May at regular venue, Himley Cricket Club. The event starts at 8pm and is open to all, members and non-members. Teams entering the quiz competition should consist of a maximum of five people, with a cost of £1.00 per person. Expect questions on General Knowledge, Music, Sport and who knows, maybe a little Speedway!
12th Jan 2004 : Club CH Annual General Meeting (Wed 21st Jan 2004)
The Annual General Meeting of Club CH will take place on Wednesday 21st January at Himley Cricket Club. Proceedings start at 8:00pm and all Heathens fans are welcome to attend. Club Cradley Heath was the organisation behind the Conference level Heathens team which operated between 1999 - 2001. For the last two seasons, members have reverted to a Supporters Club and coaches have been organised to a variety of speedway events across the country, including the British Grand Prix at Cardiff. Crucial decisions must now be made as to the future direction of the club, as fans face up to the first full year since Barratts began the redevelopment of the former Dudley Wood Stadium, and the eighth season without a professional league side. Meanwhile, the club and propsective promoters continue the so far fruitless search for a new home.
23rd Nov 2003 : End of Season Disco This Weekend
The Club CH supporters organisation hold their End of Season Disco this weekend. The event takes place on Saturday November 29th at Himley Cricket Club, located just off the A449. Getting underway at 8pm, the disco is FREE to all supporters and everyone is welcome. The club have enjoyed several speedway matches this year, including the popular annual trip to Cardiff for the British Grand Prix and organised travel to the David Nix Memorial Meeting at Oxford last month. The work behind the scenes by the Club CH committee is a big factor in keeping interest alive amongst Cradley Heath fans, waiting patiently for developments in the ongoing search for a new site. Get yourself along to Himley on Saturday night to meet up with plenty of Heathens; a chance to drink, dance and debate, putting the rest of the speedway world to rights as only a Cradley supporter can.
16th Oct 2003 : David Nix Memorial Meeting
David Nix was remembered by speedway colleagues and fans at Oxford's Cowley Stadium last night with a Conference League Memorial Meeting won by Newcastle's Craig Branney. Around 25 Cradley supporters made the midweek journey on a cold evening to join a crowd of approximately 250.
Every heat was sponsored with Club CH donating the prize for the second race, which was won by Chris Schramm. The Oxford youngster went on to record a five ride maximum in the qualifying heats before being defeated in the grand final by both Branney and Jamie Robertson. Ritchie Hawkins was a faller in the first staging of the re-run final race.
7th Sept 2003 : Club CH Travel to Remember Nixy
Club CH have announced coach travel to the David Nix Memorial Meeting at Oxford's Cowley Stadium next month. The event has been arranged for Wednesday 15th October and the Heathens coach is scheduled to leave Bank Street, Cradley Heath at 5:30pm. The club acknowledges that midweek fixtures are not easy for many fans to attend, but obviously a special case is being made in order to remember the popular former Club CH rider who was tragically killed in a track crash last season. The trip has replaced the previously planned visit to Rye House on the 20th September, but still relies on sufficient numbers to make the journey viable.
Anyone wishing to book places on the coach should telephone Margaret Bytheway on 01384 375934 and chairman Ian Shelton is hoping Cradley fans will make the effort to pay their tributes. Club CH have sponsored a race at the meeting and will be hoping to see plenty of red, green and white on the terraces as Nixy himself would have appreciated. We have also been informed that many of the riders invited to the event also rode alongside Dave in Club CH colours, including Carl Wilkinson, Deano Garrod, Luke Clifton and Gordon Meakins. Also anticipated in the line-up are top youngsters Joe Cook, Barrie Evans, James Brundle, Jamie Robertson, Chris Mills, Chris Schramm and Craig Branney (all to be confirmed).
Finally, the Club CH End of Season Disco has been confirmed for Saturday 29th November at 8:00pm. This will once again take place at Himley Cricket Club and admission is Free to all members and former members.
Link: Fans Forum
29th Aug 2003 : David Nix Memorial Meetings
Oxford Speedway will be staging a Memorial Meeting for David Nix on Wednesday 15th October. The meeting at Cowley is likely to be a Conference League individual meeting to honour the memory of the former Club CH rider who was tragically killed last year in a track crash at Kings Lynn.
The recent Grasstrack Memorial event for Nixy held near Skegness, was won by Jason Bunyan, ahead of Jason Handley, Richard Hall and Ricky Scarboro.
2003 : Club CH Round UpTeams bearing the famous Cradley Heath name have featured in two recent meetings at Sittingbourne, with some good performances to keep the Heathens flag flying.
A Club Cradley Heath quartet contended the Festival of Speed tournament event in June, as originally reported here, and the riders were cheered to second place in their semi-final. Led by Dave Chadburn and Jon Stevens, the Heathens only missed out on a place in the Final as best runners-up by a single point. James Theobald and David Baker made up the team's borrowed riders and the Club CH supporters club took a healthy coachload of fans to fill the backstraight at the Iwade venue.
An unofficial Cradley Heath pair then lined up in a Best Pairs Championship at the same track at the end of July, winning their group and semi-final, before claiming overall second place after missing out to a Hackney pair in the final. Riders represented a host of other defunct clubs including Leicester, Bristol, Scunthorpe and Norwich.
Forthcoming action is a David Nix Memorial Meeting, a Speedtrack event to be held near Skegness on Sunday 24th August. Popular Club CH rider Nix was tragically killed last May in a track accident at Kings Lynn. The meeting, which starts at 1:00pm, is being staged by Wainfleet Motorcycle Club at Thorpe St. Peter and features both speedway and sidecar riders. We are also awaiting confirmation of any other scheduled Club CH coach trips in 2003 and a possible Speedway Memorial Meeting to be held at Oxford later in the year.
18th May 2003 : Club CH Team Back on Track at Sittingbourne!
Cradley Heath fans have been handed an unexpected chance to see a Heathens team back in action in 2003 as Club CH have announced the reformation of an on-track team to compete in Sittingbourne's forthcoming Festival of Speed meeting.
The meeting, which takes place on Sunday 1st June at the Iwade venue in Kent features six current non-league and homeless Speedway teams, many of which are embroiled in similar battles to Cradley Heath, see their clubs make a full-time return to professional racing. Club CH have agreed to take part in the event, despite shutting down their team operation at the end of 2001 due to spiralling costs at amateur level and still no home track.
Six clubs will compete over two three-team tournaments, with the winners and best runners-up qualifying for a grand final tournament. Other definite starters are hosts Sittingbourne, plus Lydd/Romney, Weymouth and Norwich, with Hackney expected to confirm soon. In total, it adds up to a fantastic 27 heats of Speedway at superb value for money with admission prices set at just £6.00 for adults, £3.00 for OAP's and with children admitted free. Furthermore, it seems certain to be the only chance fans will get to see a team representing Cradley Heath on track this season, and the first time anywhere since September 2001.
A coach will be running to the meeting as usual, departing from the usual starting point of Cradley Heath Liberal Club at 10:00am for a meeting start time of 2:30pm. Coach travel costs only £10 per seat with Club CH aiming to provide the biggest support of all teams on the day. Places can be booked for the journey by telephoning Margaret Hardiman on 01384 823508 (please note this correction to the number previously advertised on the website). Also note, due to this extra meeting, the bank holiday trip to Reading will not now be taking place.
Meanwhile, Club CH have entirely filled their first coach and now have just a few places available on their second coach to Cardiff for the British Grand Prix on Saturday 14th June. The cost of the journey for this showpiece annual trip is £15.00 with a departure time of 10:00am to allow plenty of time to soak up the unique atmosphere of the day around the Welsh city centre. Anyone interested should again contact Margaret on the number above.
2nd April 03 : Club CH Plan Eight Trips For 2003
Travelling Club CH supporters will have the chance to join any of eight organised trips this season, the committee have announced. Members should have received notification in the post by now with details of all the planned trips to speedway and grasstrack meetings during 2003.
Top of the list is a long-awaited trip to Sheffield on Good Friday later this month, followed by Premier League trips in May to see Newcastle take on Kings Lynn and Reading host Stoke. Further down the calendar is the annual British Grand Prix day out at Cardiff in June and a first for the club with a Grasstrack event in Tonbridge, Kent. As previously decided, each trip will be combined with additional activities or places of interest including Meadowhall Shopping Centre (Sheffield) and Whitley Bay (Newcastle).
The trips provide Cradley fans with the only real opportunities to meet up with each other, reminisce and at the same time do what we all love best and take in a speedway match. Places can be booked on any trip by telephoning Margaret Hardiman on 01384 375934. The following prices apply for all trips, excluding Cardiff: All coach prices £10.00 Adult & £6.00 Child /OAP. Furthermore, members are entitled to as many free trips in 2003 as they paid for in 2002. So, if you travelled on the Club CH coach to four matches last year, you get four trips free this year! Regular travellers are therefore rewarded at the same time as keeping costs extremely low. However, trips will only run based on a minimum of 25 people, and will all depart from Cradley Heath Liberal Club in Bank Street, Cradley Heath. Parking will also be available for all trips except Cardiff.
A final reminder from the committee is that club membership is now due for renewal at a bargain price of just £1.00 per person to cover administration costs. Keep an eye on the web site for all future details and reminders throughout the season. Full trip details as follows:
Friday 18th April (Good Friday)
Sheffield v Stoke (British League Cup)
Depart 12.00pm including afternoon trip to Meadowhall Shopping Centre
Sunday 4th May
Newcastle v King's Lynn (Premier League)
Depart 9.00am including afternoon trip to Whitley Bay
Sunday 18th May
Sittingbourne - Festival of Speed (inc Club CH)
Depart 10.00am for start time 2.30pm. Coach price £10.00
Monday 26th May
Reading v Stoke (Premier League) (Cancelled)
Depart 12.00pm including afternoon mystery trip
Saturday 14th June
British Grand Prix - Millennium Stadium, Cardiff
Depart 10.00am. Coach price £15.00 adult, £10.00 Child / OAP - All pay
Saturday 5th July
Championship of Great Britain - Eastbourne
Departure time to be confirmed
Sunday 3rd August
Carmarthen v Peterborough (Conference League)
Depart 9.30am including lunch at rugby club
Sunday 24th August
British Round, World Longtrack / Grasstrack Grand Prix - Tonbridge, Kent
Depart 9.00am
Saturday 24th September
Rye House v Arena Essex (Premier League)
Depart 12.00pm - afternoon trip to be confirmed
19th Jan 03 : Club CH Supporters Club On the Road Again
Club CH, the Heathens Support & Social Club, have announced that they will be arranging Speedway trips for Cradley fans once again during the 2003 season.
The club and its members held a successful AGM last week and decided to continue in the same vein as last year. It is hoped to visit around six different tracks this year, as well as the third annual Millennium Stadium trip for the British Grand Prix in June. A discussion was held regarding a choice of tracks to visit and popular opinion included Rye House, Somerset and Camarthen. No definite dates have been arranged so far, as the league fixtures have not yet been published, but the majority of trips will be planned for Bank Holiday weekends, including those at Good Friday, May Day, Spring Bank and August. This is intended to avoid a late coach return to the Black Country followed by an early start the next day, and should instead afford most people a Monday morning lie-in afterwards! Further suggestions were to incorporate day trips along with a speedway meeting, such as Workington/Lake District, Reading/Windsor, Newcastle/Whitley Bay and Eastbourne/Brighton. Another possibility is a top grasstrack meeting at some point during the season.
Members will be contacted by letter when more details have been finalised. All Heathens fans are welcome to take in any of the trips, either by taking the coach from Cradley Heath or by joining fellow supporters at the venues. Further discussion and suggestions can be voiced by visiting the relevant thread on the Fans Forum and any more details will appear here when confirmed.
Supporters group Club CH are holding their Annual End of Season bash at the Himley Cricket Club (on the A449 near Dudley). The event includes a disco & buffet and is being held next Saturday, the 16th November, at 8pm. Everyone is welcome with free admission.
Club CH Making Bank Holiday Trip to Rye House
Supporters group Club CH will be ending their spell of recent inactivity with a visit to Rye House on Bank Holiday Monday, 26th August.
A coach will be running to the Rockets' double header fixture against Stoke and Hull in the Premier League. The event has been chosen partly as a thank you to the Rye House promotion who have been extremely helpful in staging fixtures against a Club CH team for the past two seasons. It also represents excellent value for money with thirty heats of speedway and becomes the first official Club CH trip since the hugely successful British Grand Prix in Cardiff. Last season's trip will be remembered for the Heathens supporters' unique tribute to the deposed home mascot 'Rocketman', when fans imitated the rather simplistic costume of using a cardboard box for head (pictured right).
Anyone wishing to book coach travel can do so by telephoning Margaret Bytheway on 01384 375934 any evening. The coach will depart from the usual location of Cradley Heath Liberal Club in Bank Street, Cradley Heath at 10.00am. Cost of travel to Hoddesdon is £8.00 for adults and £5.00 for children & OAPs.
The club have also announced details of their annual End of Season Disco. It will again take place at Himley Cricket Club on Saturday 16th November, from 8.00pm til late. All members and friends are welcome and mroe details can be obtained from Margaret on the same telephone number above.
Fans Make Welsh Return - From Carmarthen to Cardiff
Cradley fans will be heading to Cardiff's Millennium stadium again this weekend to give the Heathens a continued representation on British Speedway's big day. Last year the Black Country contingent were recognised by both TV cameras and commentator Tony Millard with a huge banner (right). This year could see even more flags and banners to remind the rest of speedway that the Heathens' fight goes on. Supporters who chose to purchase tickets in a block group with Club CH were surprised to find that their selected area was unavailable after massive allocations were given to existing British clubs, and eventually had to move to a more prominent area of the vast stadium, between the first and second bends.
The trip to Cardiff comes less than a month after supporters travelled to newly formed Carmarthen in South Wales to take in the Dragons' Conference League clash against Swindon Sprockets. The club, promoted by former Club CH favourite Gordon Meakins, and his father Nigel, honoured the Cradley fans' presence with a specially arranged second half match. Represented by Mitch Barker, Simon Dyminksi, Tim Healy and David Gough, a Cradley Select side beat Carmarthen in the six-heat match by 19-14. The rain-soaked meeting was prolonged by several delayes and re-runs but buoyed by the traditional presence of the singing Black Country fans. Club CH chipped in with sponsorship of tyres, fuel and oil for all eight participating riders.
So now its back to Wales to join the anticipated 40,000 crowd. Supporters travelling by coach should arrive in time for a 10.00am departure and bring with them their very best garments of red, white and green!
Club CH Revert to Supporters Club in 2002
The outcome of Wednesday night's Annual General Meeting of Club CH was that the club could no longer continue running a junior team representing the Heathens in 2002. Increased costs covering riders insurance and BSPA fees have closed any doors on further track action, following three years of Conference and Youth Development League challenge matches around the country.
Instead, Club CH will revert to a Supporters Social Club for the coming season, organising coach trips to at least half a dozen events, including once again the British Grand Prix in Cardiff. Other suggested, but unconfirmed trips may include Wolverhampton, Somerset, Poole and newly formed Conference club Camarthen, as well as a possible Scottish weekend tour.
More news to follow in due course.
20th August:- Premier League Stars Lead Heathens at Rye House
Club CH have pulled out all the stops to produce one of their strongest ever line-ups in preparation of their visit to Hoddesdon next Monday to take on Rye House in a 15-heat Conference League challenge match. Scheduled for the second successive year on August Bank Holiday Monday, the event is once again expected to attract a good crowd and the evenly matched teams should create some quality racing.
The Premier League's Isle of Wight star Scott Swain has been drafted in at number one to make his Heathens debut and he is solidly backed up by riders all capable of big scores at conference league level. Peter Boast and Paul Burnett return to the side for the first time this season. Boast was our highest scoring rider of 2000 and is the only surviving team member from the corresponding fixture last year where the Rockets were victorious 54-35. Burnett has made three previous appearances, scoring an impressive 7+1 on his debut at Mildenhall.
In Phil Knowles, Club CH welcome back one of their most regular team members - having made five appearances in the green and white race-jacket, while at reserve Newport's youngster Tom Brown only made his debut earlier this season in the 17-17 thriller at Wolves. The six confirmed riders are completed by the only other rider making his bow, Sheffield's Premier League reserve Adam Allot. He continues a very long family tradition with Cradley Heath after his grandfather Guy spent two seasons at Dudley Wood during 1951-52.
The number two berth is currently still to be filled but the line-up already has a formidable look about it. The match takes place on Monday 27th August, with tapes up at 3.00pm. For those who have not read the messages on the fans forum, there is a theme planned by a section of travelling supporters. In 'tribute' to the Rocket's somewhat unusual mascot (right), cardboard boxes will be optional headwear for Heathens supporters!
15th July:- Club CH Announce August Fixtures
After an unintended mid-season break, Club CH have announced their next two confirmed fixtures to take place during August.
On Saturday the 4th, the Heathens will travel to the hugely popular Premier League venue of Workington in Cumbria for a second half event. The 'Comets' regularly attract the best crowds in the league and even top the attendances of some Elite League tracks. A coach will run to the meeting, leaving Cradley Heath at 10am on Saturday morning and costing £12 per person.
That is followed by a Bank Holiday extravangaza on the 27th as the Heathens travel to take on Rye House in a full fifteen heat Conference League challenge match. The 'Rockets' ran out 54-35 victors when the two sides last met almost a year ago to the day in August 2000. The coach to this match also leaves at 10am for a 3 O'clock start and costs £10 each. The teams for both events are yet to be finalised.
2nd June:- Club CH in Determined Mood for Black Country Derby
Club CH travel to face neighbours and long-time Speedway rivals Wolverhampton next Monday night in determined mood, with a bigger Cradley Heath contingent expected to turn out at Monmore Green than for any other fixture this year.
The Heathens quartet has been named for the eagerly anticipated second half clash against the junior Wolves side and will be bolstered by the latest recruit in a string of talented youngsters to have turned out for the club. Teenager Tom Brown has impressed on two occasions against Club CH and he now faces a baptism of fire as the only new name in a settled Cradley side. He has just made his Premier League debut with a guest appearance for the Isle of Wight.
Brown will be joined by Dean Garrod, Mitch Barker and David Nix. All three are in their third season of competition for the new Heathens and are fully aware of the importance of the Black Country derby fixture, but it may well be Garrod who supporters will look to for a solid performance. No-one has made more appearances for Club CH since Cradley fans formed the club in 1999. He has made two appearances in four matches this year to add to his eight over the two previous seasons. He also has the extra experience of riding in the last clash between the two teams, scoring 4+2 on that occasion in August 1999 and rounding off the night with third place in the crucial last-heat decider to ensure a Heathens victory.
Meanwhile a great response has been received to the appeal for sponsors of the Ivor Hughes Memorial Meeting on 17th June. Club CH will stage the individual event at Mildenhall and have so far attracted over £550 in prize money, making it the best sponsored meeting in the Conference League so far this year. The club have invited Chris Shramm and Rob Finlow to join the 14 riders from the preceding Mildenhall v Boston match and would also like to place on record their thanks to Dingle Brown and Mildenhall Speedway for staging the event on the Heathens' behalf.
25th May:- Ivor Hughes Memorial at Mildenhall
Club Cradley Heath have announced that they will be staging an individual meeting next month with riders invited to compete for the Ivor Hughes Memorial Trophy. The event will take place at Mildenhall on 17th June after the Fen Tigers' promoter Dingle Brown agreed to hold the racing at the West Row track on the Heathens' behalf. The ten-heat meeting will take place following Mildenhall's Conference League clash with Boston and it is hoped that sixteen riders will be able to take part. Six of these will be representing Club CH on the day and the others will be invited from other Conference teams. The trophy commemorates the only rider ever to have been killed wearing a Cradley Heath race-jacket. Hughes was fatally injured in a track crash in August 1966 which makes this year the 35th anniversary of his untimely death. Known as 'the Welsh Wizard', he had made sensational progress at Dudley Wood and with the added investment in a new machine in '66, he was not only winning races but competing with the very best. Club CH are now looking for individuals or companies who would like to sponsor a heat in the match. It will be the second time the club have staged the trophy in three years. The last time was at Wolverhampton when Newport rider Chris Neath took the honours and a £100 first prize. Total prize money was over £500 on the night and it is hoped to at least equal that figure this year. Interested sponsors should contact the club on 07788 886 765.18th April:- Heathens Look Forward to Boston Challenge
After the Heathens four-man team narrowly lost out at Arena Essex despite the heroics of late stand-in, Matt Read, the club are now looking forward to this Sunday's full 15-heat encounter with Conference League Boston.
The second match of the season comes hot on the heels of the first, but a large following is expected to see an exciting looking Club CH side take on one of the most fancied teams in the lower league. Boston are almost using a squad rotation system at the moment with an abundance of talented riders battling for contention. Tipped for a recall this week is Freddie Stephenson, who will join Carl Wilkinson in the starting line-up. Both riders were in Cradley colours for the first ever Club CH match at Buxton almost two years ago.
Club CH will now be unable to use Somerset's Finnish international Jarno Kosonen as planned, due to a BSPA ruling regarding his eligibility. He will be replaced by 16 year old Kidderminster-based Rob Finlow. The local rider joins Malcolm Holloway - who is well over twice Finlow's age, plus future stars David McAllan, Darren Smith and Jamie Holmes in making Heathens debuts, while loyal stalwarts Mitch Barker and Dean Garrod fill the reserve slots.
Boston are once again racing their home fixtures at Kings Lynn's Norfolk Arena. The well established speedway venue always provides a super track, and is easily accessible from the A47. Take the exit marked St.Germans and turn onto Saddlebow Road, where you will see the stadium on the right. The meeting starts at 6.00pm and will be followed by a second half involving both clubs.
Check Latest Fixture List
11th April:- Arena Essex Match Preview
This Friday at last brings along the opening Club CH fixture of the season with a second half match at Arena Essex. It's time to dig out last year's collection of inflatable toys, pick up some cheap green and white balloons and tear up your newspapers into little squares!
The team (see below; 6th April) will be the first to wear the new Club CH race jackets for 2001 and the first Heathens team to take to the Purfleet track since a 49-47 Premier League defeat in 1995. This year's senior Hammers team includes ex-Heathen Troy Pratt and one of last year's Club CH stars, Luke Clifton.
If you're travelling to the match, the best plan seems to be to make a day of it, avoid the traffic and set out early to visit the massive Lakeside Shopping Centre which is situated only a couple of miles from the stadium. Just turn off the M25 at Junction 30/31 and follow signs for the A1306. The track itself is signposted, off the roundabout alongside Thurrock Serices. It'll cost you £9.50 to get in (including programme) to see Arena V Reading in the Premier Trophy, followed by the Arena v Club CH second half event. For more information on the club, visit www.arenaessex-speedway.co.uk and I'll see you on Friday!
6th April:- Video Night Success & Team for Arena
The recent video night organised by Club CH proved to be a huge success with over 100 people turning up for an evening of Heathens nostalgia.
Footage included a Birmingham v Cradley match from 1949, a rare recorded interview with Ivor Brown and of course the classic World Finals of 1981, 82 and 85. There was an update from CRASH spokesman Bob Edwards regarding PPG17 and it's effect on the Dudley Wood case (see latest news) and general feedback from the Club CH committee about future plans.
Amongst the news was the team to face Arena Essex next Friday in a second half junior match. Four riders have been named who all have experience riding for Club CH and will lead the Heathens faithful for our first match of 2001. The quartet is made up of David Nix, David Hartley, Welsh Wizard Gordon Meakins and teenager Charly Kirtland.
Further team news comes for the Boston match on the 22nd of this month with the headline of the first foreign international to ride for Club CH. Somerset's recent Finnish signing, Jarno Kosonen will turn out in the (new) green and white race jacket and seems likely to be joined by a heavy Somerset influence. The Rebels riders are waiting to get some action under their belts following the Foot and Mouth crisis which has delayed the start of the season at the Highbridge Arena. It is hoped to finalise the remaining members of the team over the next week for what will be a tough test against one of the most fancied Conference League outfits this year.
30th March:- Video Night: Wednesday 4th April
Club CH are presenting a special Video Night next Wednesday, at Cradley Heath Liberal Club - the regular venue on Bank Street just off the High Street.
The event features classic Heathens footage beginning in 1947, and taking a nostalgic trip through the 70s, 80s and 90s, right up to Club CH action from the last couple of years. It is the first social night of the new 2001 season for Cradley fans and comes just a couple of weeks before the first scheduled fixture.
Plans for the evening have been publicised recently by the Express & Star, News Group papers and the local Black Country Bugle, as well as Speedway Star magazine, so a good turn out is expected. The best news is that admission is absolutely FREE!
Meanwhile, Club CH signing Shane Colvin has now put pen to paper with another team for this season. As well as recently signing for the Newport Mavericks in the Conference League, he has returned to previous Premier League club Reading to complete the Racers 1-7. Colvin's extra professional commitments will, at best, mean extremely limited chances to turn out for the Heathens. The youngster had been pencilled into the team to face Boston on the 22nd April, but will now be riding for the Racers at Newport. It seems there's nothing like a bit of Cradley interest to kick start a career!
8th March:- Heathens Masses To Make Trip to British GP!
When the 2001 Grand Prix series rolls into Cardiff's Millennium Stadium on the 9th June, it will be British Speedway's biggest night for many years. So, not wanting to miss out on the prestigious event, Cradley fans have responded in their numbers to an organised block booking of tickets.
Club CH were delighted to receive orders for over 80 tickets at the AGM a couple of weeks ago - well in excess of what was expected - and the order was placed the following day to ensure the majority of Heathens fans will be seated together on the night.
The idea was first mooted on the Fans Forum here, and gradually gained momentum until there was enough interest to guarantee more fans than plenty of other areas of the country will provide. Chairman, Ian Shelton said "This shows that the support is very much alive six years after the loss of Dudley Wood and with the Club CH venture in a healthy state, Cradley Heath are very much in business".
Coach travel will be arranged closer to the date and a location will also be discussed to meet up with other Heathens fans who have purchased their own tickets or travelled separately.
2nd March:- Colvin signs for Newport
Shane Colvin, one of the riders recruited to the Club CH squad for this season, has been snapped up by Newport Mavericks in the Conference League.
Colvin broke into British Speedway as a highly promising youngster with Reading in 1999 and was given a starting place by the Racers last season. Despite increasing his assessed three point average, he was dropped at the start of August to accomodate the return of Dave Mullett.
Colvin has now moved to South Wales joins a highly respected Newport second team who won the league in '99 and finished 5th in 2000. The move gives him a better chance to fight for a Premier League return, whilst hopefully not affecting his appearances for the Heathens.
All Club CH riders will be turning out for us when their respective Conference fixtures allow and the stylish Colvin will be a massive boost to the ranks when in the team.
25th February:- News from the AGM
After a successful Annual General Meeting, the club are now looking forward to beginning their third consecutive season of action, but are still on the look out to attract new members and bring back old members who didn't renew last year.
The feedback from members was described by chairman Ian Shelton as "excellent" as the opportunity will be presented to Cradley fans to visit Elite and Premier venues as well as watching a Heathens team on track in the second half.
A squad of riders has already been assembled and the club have reached agreements with Gordon Meakins, David Nix, Mitch Barker, Shane Colvin, Charly Kirtland and David Hartley to appear when Conference League fixtures allow.
A small profit was made after last years expenses, due to being unable to fit in a final match late in the season. The decision was taken to use this excess to sponsor the 2001 Heathens riders with equal sums.
Finally a Video Night has been arranged for Wednesday 4th April with FREE admission. The usual venue is of course Cradley Heath Liberal Club and the event will kick off at 8.00pm.
21st February:- First 2001 Fixtures Confirmed!
Club CH have confirmed their first two fixtures of 2001 with a first visit to Arena Essex, and a return to face Boston at Kings Lynn.
The match against the junior Hammers will take place at Purfleet on the same bill as the Premier League encounter between Arena Essex and Reading on Good Friday, the 13th April. The Heathens will be involved in a second half clash after the main meeting.
The challenge against Conference League Boston will be a full 15-heat match at the Norfolk Arena where Club CH have lost twice in the last two seasons. The 7-man Heathens team to be assembled will have a tough job against the Braves, who are putting together are title-chasing team for the new season.
More news from Wednesday night's Annual General Meeting will be here shortly.
19th February:- Membership Recruitment + AGM
Club CH are ready to begin preparations for a third consecutive season of operation under the Conference-level racing banner. This season will provide fresh challenges, fixtures and venues in the drive to keep the Heathens name alive with a team on track for the supporters to follow. However, in order to finance the necessary resources for riders, travel and other arrangements, the club relies solely on membership and local sponsorship. Therefore a rallying call must be made now for club members - new and old - to renew their membership fees for 2001. Brand new members are more than welcome at a cost of just £5.00 per season, which includes a regular newsletter. Your money will be going directly to help keep the Heathens on the track and remind the Speedway public that we're still going, so tell your friends and your neighbours to join as well! Send cheques to Club CH at 24 Vale Road, Netherton, Dudley, West Mids, DY2 9HZ or enquiries to steven.johnson@bigfoot.com;
Alternatively, monies can be paid in person at the Club's AGM which takes place this Wenesday at Cradley Heath Liberal Club. If you also wish to join the Cradley trip to the British Grand Prix, then don't forget to bring the ticket money to the meeting as the block booking will be made on Thursday morning.
1st February:- AGM Committee Changes
Existing Club CH members should all have received a recent update letter in the post by now, including a reminder of both the forthcoming Annual General Meeting and the Block Booking for the British Grand Prix.
There have been two resignations from the Club CH commitee and therefore the two positions have been opened to nominations for the 2001 season. All members were notified and any nominations were invited before yesterday's closing date (31st Jan). All other committee members, including chairman Ian Shelton and secretary Nigel Nicklin, will be continuing for a third successive season organising the Club CH project.
Any proposals will now be open to discussion at the AGM which takes place on the 21st February at Cradley Heath Liberal Club. Anyone wishing to book GP tickets can now reserve their seat either by email to me, by post before the 16th February to Club CH at 24 Vale Road, Netherton, Dudley, West Mids, DY2 9HZ, or in person on the night of the AGM. Tickets for the selected area of the Millenium Stadium are priced at £29 each.
18th January:- Date Set for AGM + British GP Booking
Club CH have confirmed that the 3rd Annual General Meeting of the supporters-based organisation will take place on Wednesday 21st February at Cradley Heath Liberal Club. The usual venue, on Bank Street just off Cradley Heath High Street, will welcome Club CH members for a start of 8.00pm. Although the first half of the evening is for existing members only, the second half will be thrown open to all fans and will hopefully include a latest news update from CRASH regarding the Dudley Wood situation.
This seasons membership fees can also be paid on the night. The cost for 2001 is £5.00 (normal) or £25.00 (gold members). Remember, all your support is invaluable in keeping the club alive even more so now than ever. The season ahead will include a Heathens return to a host of venues, several of which will be new to the Club CH bandwagon.
Also at the AGM will be the opportunity to book your place in the 'Cradley section' for the British Grand Prix at Cardiff on 9th June this year. Tickets must be paid for on the night and will be ord