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South Wales Argus
5 days ago
- Sport
- South Wales Argus
Nostalgia: The demolition of Newport's speedway stadium
Speedway was a fixture in Newport from 1964, firstly at Newport County's Somerton Park stadium, where the first meeting was held in April 1964 in front of a crowd of more than 10,000. The local team was the Newport Wasps and after having to leave Somerton Park in the mid-1970s, they raced for a time in Bristol, before the stadium at Queensway Meadows was built. Speedway came back to Newport in the late 1990s. We take a look back at how we reported the demolition of the stadium in August 2012, and bring you memories from speedway fans who are some of the 14,000-plus members of our We Grew Up in Newport Facebook group. Queensway Meadows. Picture shared by Dixie Dean From the Argus of August 9, 2012: THE demolition of Newport Speedway stadium this week marked the end of an era for the sport in the city. Hayley Stadium is no more after bulldozers moved in on Tuesday to collapse the derelict stands and outbuildings. The newly cleared site is set to become a haulage depot after Chepstow-based MCL Logistics took over ownership in May. Supporters, who had backed retired Speedway rider Phil Morris' bid to resurrect the sport in the city, said they were devastated at its loss. Mark Poulton said: 'It now looks like there is no hope of a future in Newport for a professional sport that has brought such a positive name for Newport for 50 years.' Newport Wasps: Vic White, Geoff Penniket, Jon Erskine, Alby Golden, Dick Bradley, Peter Vandenberg and Ray Harris 'It is a sad day for Newport and an even sadder day for speedway in the UK.' Fan Wayne Evans said: 'I just think back to Tim Stone who started it, he put so much time, effort and sweat into it – so did the supporters. For it now to be lost, it's a sad day. 'While it was there, there was always a hope that somebody would step in but now there's none.' The stadium closed in February after several failed takeover bids, an arson attack and repeated spates of vandalism. Glory days: Promoter Tim Stone, left, with the 2006 Newport Wasps team and sponsor Gary Parker, of the Everest Group Lliswerry councillor Allan Morris, said of the demolition: 'It's a sad end to a glorious era for the city. But nothing is forever and who knows one day it may well be back again.' Readers' memories of speedway in Newport: Linda Smith: "I remember some really wonderful days there, including being featured in the Argus with a then-colleague of mine. Strangely enough, for all of the amazing rides and riders I saw there, including Billy Hamil and Frank Smart etc, there is one thing that sticks in my mind, and that is the day I had a chat with Lawrence Hare. "I remember warning him about how unpredictable the grip was on bends three and four that day. "A few weeks later that unpredictable grip caught him out - it resulted in a nasty crash at that point where I had previously warned him about. He picked up that unwanted grip and ended up in a wheelchair. I wasn't there that day - I was working. I just wish that he had listened to my words of warning." Colin Lewis: "Smell of Castrol R and face full of grit." Newport Wasps' Craig Watson, centre, and Leight Lanham, right, competing against Somerset's Cory Gathercole in 2010 Denise Ambridge: "Loved going to speedway, the thrill, excitement and noise. Worse thing ever losing that. Another loss to Newport as usual." Terry Craddock: "The 1968 season when a young swede came back to Newport for his second season at Newport. This young man was so thrilling on track and he beat the very best. His name was Torbjorn Harryson and, though he was short, he was a giant on the track. "He would fly around the boards around the very best. Toby was a fun guy off track too and made many many great friends and fans in the UK. I've seen him have some of the most scary crashes only to jump up and out ready for his next race. The kids would be queing up after the meeting to get his autograph. "Toby was popular everywhere, but sadly it all came to an end after an horrific crash in the 1969 world final at Wembley he broke his leg so badly it never healed again. "Toby did try a come back but another nasty fall forced him to retire. He managed Sweden for several years until his untimely end several years ago." Torbjorn Harryson in action. Picture shared by Terry Craddock Margaret Smith: "Me and my sister used to go there every Friday. We just loved it. We had all the rosettes. I remember riders like Jon Eriskine and Albey Golden. Wish it came back." Margaret Dean: "I was a Speedway supporter from 1953 as a school girl supporting Cardiff Dragons and Bristol Bulldogs. When Newport opened I was married with a husband and three children. We all went every week as a family. We still watch and follow speedway right up to this day on television and I am almost 85." Russell Tonks: "I lived in Wallsall Street off of Corporation Road. From the age of about six I spent every Friday night at Newport speedway in Somerton grounds. "Loved every single night watching the absolute legend Phil Crump at Newport. And also followed his son Jason Crump, who is also an absolute legend. Amazing time of my life." Andrew Ralley: "It must be about 40 years ago, in Somerton Park, Phil Crump winning the Golden Helmet. John Goodall is a name that I remember too." Bulldozers start the demolition of derelict stands and outbuildings at Hayley Stadium Paul Edwards: "Loved going over Somerton to watch speedway in the 70s. It was sad to see it go, but when Tim Stone brought speedway back to Newport it was like a breath of fresh air. "I helped out with Tim painting the track fencing and putting in the stands seating and also my wife ran the cheerleaders and I was a raker on the third bend. "The team had great support at home and the trips to watch them ride away were great. Loved the Scotland tour. Sadly missed. "If Tim was still with us so would the speedway be. We all hope and pray that one day it will return." Sylvia Bennett: "Loved speedway at Somerton Park and being a little girl in the pits where Phil Crump, Bob Coles and Brian Woodward would be with their bikes. "Little did I know 40 years later my boy would ride for the Hornets, James White Williams." Lynette Isaacs: "Used to love the speedway on the old county ground, Friday nights, loved the excitment, but the smell!"
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Six times Reading visited Goodison Park as Everton wave goodbye to historic home
After 132 years, Goodison Park hosted its final Everton home match on Saturday as the Toffees beat Southampton in the Premier League. Moving to their new home at Bramley Moore Docks over the summer, the iconic Liverpool venue will play host to Everton Women, preserving the historic ground for many years to come. Reading visited Gwladys Street on six occasions, the first coming way back in 1931 for a Division Two meeting, one of the few times the club have been outside of the top-flight. Beating the Biscuitmen 2-0 at Elm Park, Dixie Dean featured for the hosts in a 3-2 win at Goodison Park in front of nearly 24,000 supporters. It would be another 40 years before Reading returned to Goodison Park, a League Cup meeting between First Division Everton and Division Four Reading. A tight contest, Mick Buckley scored the only goal of the game in the second round tie. Another 34 years passed between meetings two and three, coming in the Royals' inaugural top-flight campaign. David Moyes' Toffees were among the regular sides competing for Europe for most of the early 2000s, while Steve Coppell's side joined them in competing for Europe in 2006/07. Taking an early lead through a Joleon Lescott own goal, Andrew Johnson kept up his knack of scoring against the club with an 81st minute equaliser. It was played in front of a crowd of nearly 35,000, including Hollywood star Sylvester Stallone. The following season, Reading were relegated and Phil Jagielka scored the only goal in a 1-0 victory for the hosts. They had finished fifth and reached the semi-final of the FA Cup that campaign. After league meetings and a League Cup tie, the two historic sides finally met in the most prestigious competition, the FA Cup, in 2011. This was to be Reading's greatest day at the grand old stadium, knocking out the Toffees in their own back yard. Matt Mills' first half header, and a resolute defence, pushed the Royals over the line for a second successive win on Merseyside, knocking Liverpool out at Anfield in Round Three. The final meeting between the two sides at Goodison Park came 12 years ago, a Premier League tussle which saw the hosts prevail 3-1. Marouane Fellaini, Steven Pienaar and Kevin Mirallas scored, as did Hal Robson-Kanu for Brian McDermott's side. Reading did get the better of Everton in the reverse fixture, the first Premier League win of the season coming in October 2012. Now the wait continues as ground-hopping Reading fans look forward to an eventual trip to the state-of-the-art new ground in the city.
Time of India
19-05-2025
- Sport
- Time of India
Everton close curtain on Goodison Park with final match vs Southampton
Image Source: Getty Everton fans will witness a historic moment on Sunday as the club plays its last game at Goodison Park against Southampton . With a 12 p.m. kick-off, this emotional farewell will mark the end of an era, as the team prepares to move to the new Hill Dickinson Stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock next season. A stadium full of firsts and football history Goodison Park has been more than just a football ground. For 133 years, it stood as one of the great symbols of English football . It was the first purpose-built football stadium in the world. It introduced dugouts and even installed undersoil heating before others. But beyond these firsts, Goodison became a home for unforgettable football memories. The stadium saw Everton win eight of their nine league titles. Legends like Dixie Dean, who scored 60 goals in a single season, and the famous trio of Kendall, Harvey and Ball created moments that fans still talk about. The 'School of Science' teams of the 60s and the strong mid-'80s squad built the club's proud history. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like New Trend Lets Indians Access Benefits Up to ₹2,00,00,000 India News Learn More Undo Even in difficult times, Goodison never lost its spirit. Fans remember nail-biting matches against Coventry and Bournemouth to avoid relegation. Many supporters under 30 have never seen a league title, but they grew up with dreams shaped by this special place. Emotions run high as the final whistle nears When the players walk onto the field on Sunday, it will be a special game. The chapter will bring closure to a life of sweet memories and goodbyes. Former players, club staff, and thousands of fans will feel the weight of the moment. Joe Royle, who played and managed at Goodison, says he can't imagine how hard it will be to say goodbye. 'The crowd was awesome. Goodison in winter was terrifying for opponents,' he recalls. Arsene Wenger, the former Arsenal manager, also shared his thoughts. He compared this goodbye to leaving Highbury, calling Goodison 'another soul of English football' that's disappearing. Also Read: Everton women make history with permanent move to Goodison Park Everton plans to let fans buy their own stadium seats as keepsakes. But the real memory lies in the cheers, the chants, and the people. From the Toffee Lady to Z Cars playing before kick-off, every part of Goodison lives in the hearts of Evertonians. This Sunday, the final whistle will sound at Goodison Park—but the memories will echo forever. Get IPL 2025 match schedules , squads , points table , and live scores for CSK , MI , RCB , KKR , SRH , LSG , DC , GT , PBKS , and RR . Check the latest IPL Orange Cap and Purple Cap standings.
BBC News
18-05-2025
- Sport
- BBC News
'It was as if everyone had come together as one club'
The blue smoke could be seen rising around Goodison Park almost four hours before kick-off. This grand old arena was not built for serene farewells, so a day of history and high emotion was never going to pass off quietly.A football match broke out briefly, separating the celebrations marking the end of 133 years of men's senior football here, Everton delivering a fitting farewell as Southampton surrendered to the mood and Iliman Ndiaye's two first-half familiar sights and sounds of Goodison Park still assaulted the senses as Evertonians made their way to this richly atmospheric place three miles outside the city centre to simply say they were there, whether they had match tickets or walk from the car park? Make that nearly an thronged the streets from 8am, Goodison Road close to impassable, forcing Everton's team to take a different route into the stadium, the coach arriving on Bullens Road hidden behind more blue plumes of smoke rising into the Merseyside fans were drawn to the famous landmarks.'The Holy Trinity' statue, commemorating the 1970 title-winning midfield of Alan Ball, Colin Harvey and Howard Kendall and opposite St Luke the Evangelist church on the corner of Gwladys Street, was swamped, as was that of former striker Dixie Dean, who still holds the record of 60 league goals in will stay in place while Everton move to the spectacular 53,000-capacity stadium at Bramley Moore Dock, now known as the Hill Dickinson Stadium. The old Everton strongholds such as The Blue House and The Winslow Hotel - with its Howard Kendall Bar - were packed, before those lucky enough to have the golden farewell ticket made their way into Goodison Park. Business was booming like never before at the Blue Dragon fish bar and The Goodison Cafe, traditional gathering places over the old place will live on as home to Everton's women's team, but some rituals were taking place here for the final time as the hordes made their way through the terraced houses that landlock Goodison in Winslow Street, Eton Street, Neston Street and Andrew they gathered inside, the stadium packed well before kick-off, the air raid siren blared out, tears shed as the familiar drumbeat introduced Everton's famous 'Z Cars' Park was literally rocking, with the giant Main Stand, regarded as state of the art when opened in 1970, and the criss-cross designs along the Bullens Road Stand that are the trademark of famous Scottish architect Archibald Leitch, packed in a sea of royal was a period of almost eerie silence in the second half, with the game won, as Everton supporters geared up for the final celebration. When the board went up for the final four minutes, a wall of sound swept around until referee Michael Oliver's whistle brought the curtain was the start of more celebrations, with video messages from football figures, such as England head coach Thomas Tuchel, recalling his memories of Goodison Park's unique atmosphere. Old Evertonians, now elsewhere, also paid their tributes, with particularly warm ovations for former captain and Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta and Carlo Ancelotti, who managed the club for 18 months before returning to Real were more tears as a violinist played a poignant rendition of the 'Z Cars' theme as more than 70 former players gathered before being paraded in front of the came from around the globe to share the emotions of the Cahill and Gary Stevens – a two-time title winner who also won the FA Cup and European Cup Winners' Cup – flew in from Australia, while Paul Rideout, matchwinner in the 1995 FA Cup final against Manchester United, came from the United States. Bob Latchford, who won £10,000 from a newspaper for scoring 30 goals in the 1977-78 season, was there from Sharp, back in the fold after a period in exile when his spell on the board ended in acrimony, attended Rooney was greeted like the prodigal son, remembered as the 16-year-old who electrified Goodison Park with that famous goal against Arsenal rather than the local boy who left his beloved club to seek success and ending up as Manchester United's all-time record goalscorer. He, of course, then came back to were moments that carried the feeling of the club's worldwide family, re-united once more. Everton manager David Moyes, who will lead the club into the new stadium in his second spell in charge, captured the mood."This was an extraordinary atmosphere," he confessed. "The crowd were amazing inside Goodison Park, as it was outside before the game. Just unbelievable. The job was to win the game and see ourselves out at Goodison in a good light."I thought it was as if everyone had come together as one club. Everyone standing together."The support at Everton is immense. It's needed some form of success. This is a day they've been waiting on for so long, a new stadium coming."The 62-year old Scot added: "I never thought I'd be the one to take Everton into the new stadium."I'm honoured to be given that opportunity. We all see it as another chance. We need to start rebuilding Everton again."We've done the job [of staying up]. We have to try to build on that next year. If we can get an atmosphere like this in the new stadium it'll give us every chance of winning games."The man who christened Everton "The People's Club" on the night he arrived from Preston North End in March 2002, then revisited the old theme."Goodison Park will be remembered for one thing. The people." Moyes also wants the passion, colour and emotion of this day to provide a template for Everton's new American owners, The Friedkin Group."I hope the owners recognise what they're seeing here," he added. "This should be bottled up, wrapped up and taken to the Mersey. This club needs to get back to where it once was."There's 100 great players here from great teams. We have to make that happen again."Everton must now try to recreate the heart and soul of Goodison Park on the banks of the River Mersey at Bramley Moore will be a tough the old Leitch architecture gave the Goodison Park structure something unique, it also possesses something bricks and mortar simply cannot Everton striker Andy Gray, who won the top-flight title, FA Cup and European Cup Winners' Cup, said: "We will leave Goodison Park. Goodison Park will never leave us."A lone trumpeter played a final, mournful version of 'Z Cars' to close the day, thousands of fans remaining in their seats and unable to tear themselves away from the places they have come to call their of joy, despair and relief have all been shed here at Goodison Park. This time it was a mixture of as Everton labelled this day, it was "the end of an era".
Telegraph
18-05-2025
- Sport
- Telegraph
Everton vs Southampton: Latest updates from emotional last men's game at Goodison Park
So, after 133 years it's finally time to say goodbye to Goodison Park. Farewell, then, to St Luke's and Old Ma Bushell's Toffee House, farewell to Johnny Todd, Bullens Road, Walton Lane, Goodison Road and Gwladys Street, farewell to the field where bullocking Dixie frolicked, Duncan McKenzie dazzled, the Golden Vision gilded, Brian Labone strained every sinew, Big Dunc battled, the Holy Trinity were worshipped, where Tommy Lawton scored 70 goals before his 20th birthday and Wayne Rooney shook up the world at 17. It's a world of royal blue, the Mersey Millionaires, Bob Latchford and his five grand cheque, of eternal questions such as 'what the hell is Hafnia?', Le Coq Sportif and white bibs, Big Andy and Inchy, Sharpie and Sheeds, Reidy and Brace, Stevens and Steven, the Rat and Degsy, Bails and Psycho Pat, Rico, Harpo and the imperishable Nev. It's the popping of corks in Howard's office, stern Harry, Eusebio, the Black Pearl, going berserk at 3-0 down to North Korea and banging in four, Haller and Beckenbauer in a World Cup semi, where two teams in black and white stripes won FA Cup finals. Football clubs have moved stadiums without a backward look before and both Middlesbrough and Sunderland have had some glorious moments in their years away from Ayresome Park and Roker Park. Football clubs are more than lumps of ground, they are confederations of memory, tradition, of the hopes and emotions of millions of people over more than a century who have carried them in their hearts. That will not change away from Goodison but something will be lost because it has been, since the moment Archibald Leitch laid down his T-square, the perfect football stadium with a unique atmosphere. Those who mourn its passing are not Luddites or romantic simpletons out of tune with a hard-nosed corporate league rapidly colonised by plutocrats. They know its time has come but hope it can be given the send-off it deserves.
