greater pollok heritage

by John A Letts

Cycle speedway was prominent in Pollok about fifty years ago, probably peaking in 1952 and 1953 when Pollok Stars raced at Linthaugh Road and Redhill Rockets had a track at Barrhead Road/Hurlet.

Pollok Stars raced in the South Glasgow and District Speedway League, competing against Camphill Kiwis, Craigton Eagles and Redhill Rockets.

Craigton Eagles were the dominant team at that time while Pollok Stars were relatively new and finding their feet. The Pollok team comprised of Gerry Hollywood, Alan McColl, Bob Thomson, Jimmy Kerr, Jim Docherty, Tony McNellis, John Ferguson and Hugh Blair. Some Pollok residents rode for other teams too. For example, John ‘Cowboy’ Peacock was one of Craigton Eagles top riders. Matches took place on Sunday afternoons at the Linthaugh Road track and large crowds turned out to watch, giving good support and encouragement to the home team. On occasion, the crowd was so great that the police complained that traffic was being obstructed on Linthaugh Road. Crowds of supporters also watched from the switchback hills overlooking the Redhills track at Hurlet.

In subsequent years, Cycle Speedway teams were developed at Priesthill, Arden and Corkerhill.

I would love to hear from any of the guys mentioned above or indeed, anyone who has memories and perhaps photos of cycle speedway in any area.

Email gppress@btinternet.com