Speedway's Nigel '˜Booey' Boocock rides his last lap around Brandon Stadium

His widow Cynthia handed his ashes to her grandson Thomas and former world champion Peter Collins, who took control of the bike for the emotional farewell final lap, in front of more than 1,000 supporters, who turned out on a damp morning at Brandon Stadium on Saturday to pay their respects to ‘Booey’, who died in April last year aged 77.

They were joined by three generations of his family and many former speedway racing icons from the golden era, when the sport was the second biggest spectator sport in the UK.

The ‘legend of the Bees’ dedicated 18 years (1959 to 1976) of his life to entertaining generations of fans.

All had a tale to tell about racing with ‘Booey’, who stopped racing at Brandon 39 years ago.

It was organised by former Mayor of Rugby Tony Gillias, who said: “The terrific turnout was indeed testament to the high esteem he was held.

“A collection in aid of the Speedway Riders Benevolent Fund, raised £1,360, which will go to provide help and assistance for permanently injured riders.”

‘Booey’, who created history at Brandon by riding in 748 meets, more than any other rider and scoring a massive 7,375 points, had been an idol to generations of fans throughout the world.

Nigel lived in Park Road, Rugby, and then in Addison Road, for many years before emigrating to Australia. He was a Bees star for 18 years and was highly respected in the sport.

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