BARRY BRIGGS MBE, 4 times World Speedway Champion, now 75 years old, will be riding into Redcar Speedway on Thursday 3rd June as part of his marathon motorcycle ride throughout the UK as he aims to raise £120,000 for crippled colleagues.

“Briggo”, as he is known to fans all over the world, is currently on tour to raise the money for twelve former riders who are now in wheelchairs as a direct result of injuries sustained on the track. Stopping off at Dormer Way is just one small part of his effort which also benefits Sport Relief.

The ride which began in John O’Groats, Scotland, will take him to almost every Speedway Stadium in the UK as well as trips to Denmark and Poland where he will catch up with the Speedway World Championship Grand Prix series and take his appeal to the European stage before finishing at the Millennium Stadium, Cardiff for the British round in July.

Barry is only too aware of the plight of those who suffer such disabilities, as his own son, Tony, broke his neck at a young age whilst racing speedway. It was an agonizing time for the family as they witnessed his paralysis, first hand, for several months.

“Fortunately, Tony recovered”, says Briggs “but these twelve boys are not nearly so lucky”.

“People easily forget about them, but I know from experience, that every day, they suffer humiliation and hardship in a private world that nobody sees”.

“What we are trying to do is make a real difference to their lives and no matter how hard it gets, constantly on the bike over the next month or so, it is that knowledge that will keep me going, so I’m sure I will get through it okay”.

When Briggo rides into The South Tees Motorpark for Thursday’s encounter starting at 7.30pm he is guaranteed a rapturous welcome from the fans and he hopes that it will be matched by their generosity.

“We just need people to reach into their hearts and reach into their pockets”, he concluded.

You can find out more from his website www.briggo.net  where there are facilities and information on how to donate.

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