The oldest cycle speedway club in the world which is based in the Black Country today looked almost certain to be disbanded because of repeated break-ins.
Sandwell Lions Cycle-Speedway Club, founded in Tividale in 1948, will fold after the current season ends in October because members are sick of having to fork out for repair bills and replacing stolen equipment. The club currently has around 25 members and has produced world champions including Mark Newley, of Dudley, who rides for Leicester Monarchs in the national league.
Devastated chairman Pete Dalley revealed there has been around nine raids in the last two years alone, costing the club at least £7,000.
He said: “We are so demoralised, it has happened so many times. It doesn’t matter what we do – they keep coming back and causing all this damage.
“We are trying to keep a club running for all the kids in the area to use but with all the trouble and cost, we can’t keep it going.
“I feel like I am letting them down but I don’t know what else to do. We have been in existence for 60 years.”
The latest attack took place between March 25 and 30 and caused £1,500 damage.
The new felt roof that was installed at the base, next to Tividale Community Centre, after the last raid, was ripped off and a roller shutter door wrenched off the wall. Treasurer Roger Bearman said the burglaries had “knocked the heart out” of the Midland League club.
He said: “It is heartbreaking. As well as the constant damage we have had TVs, videos, DVDs, a photocopier and other equipment stolen.
“We’d love to carry on but the will has definitely gone.
“We will complete the league season because we are committed to that but once that is done, I think that will be it. I think this latest incident is one too far and has sounded the death knell for our club.”
At its height, in the 70s and early 80s, the club had around 60 members.
Mr Beaman added: “This club has always had to fund repairs and replacement costs out of its membership fees and people are just sick of having to stump up the cash.”
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