Speedway unites in Rico’s memory

The country’s top speedway clubs and their fans have been paying their respects to Lee Richardson.

St Leonards-based Richardson, who was Great Britain’s top points scorer in World Cup racing, was killed in an accident while riding in a Polish League meeting on Sunday May 13.

The thoroughly likeable Richardson, 33, had also been riding domestically for Lakeside Hammers and it was an emotional night at the Arena Essex Raceway last Friday for the visit of Swindon Robins.

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The evening began with a heartfelt tribute from boss Jon Cook, who along with many friends and family members joined the numerous fans who had turned out to pay their respects to Richardson.

Swindon have planned their own tribute during the home fixture against Peterborough Panthers, for whom Richardson rode in 1997 and 2004, tonight (Thursday).

The club have dedicated the front cover of their match programme to his memory, supporters will have the opportunity to donate to the Lee Richardson Support Fund and they also have a centregreen banner with the #RICO hashtag which has been trending on Twitter since his passing.

Lakeside set up the Lee Richardson Support Fund for his wife and three children after consultation with the Richardson family.

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As well as donating, fans can buy a selected range of Lee Richardson prints from Hammers track photographers TGS and specially commissioned Lee Richardson t-shirts with all profits going to the fund.

Fans and riders stood in silence ahead of Eastbourne Eagles’ Elite League meeting against Swindon at Arlington Stadium on Saturday night and a collection raised more than £2,800 for Richardson’s family.

Coventry Bees raised £2,842 from a collection last Friday and Peterborough held a collection during their clash against Birmingham on Monday, as well as making a book of condolence available for supporters to pay their respects.