Norman Strachan

Strachan, born in Poole, was a cycle speedway rider before he learned how to ride speedway at the Matcham's Park training facilities.^[2] He began his British leagues career riding for Poole Pirates during the 1953 Speedway National League Division Two season.^[3]

Strachan built up his reputation at Poole and would become a fan's favourite at the club and helped the Pirates win the double of league and Knockout Cup in 1955^[4] but suffered a serious hand injury working in a local sawmill in 1956.^[2]

The injury affected his speedway career for the next few seasons and it was not until 1960 that he returned to regular action. In 1962, he was described as an enigma because of his contrasting form^[5] and contributed towards Poole's two consecutive Provincial League titles in 1961 and 1962.^[6]

He made 303 appearances for Poole from 1953 to 1967 and was inducted into the Hall of fame in 1994.^[2] In 1968, he left Poole when he was allocated to the Newport Wasps^[7] and rode for them for three seasons before moving on to Oxford Cheetahs in 1971.^[8]

He retired after the 1974 season, by which time he had also ridden for Coatbridge Tigers and Long Eaton Rangers.^[1]