Interview Summary – Ian Perkin (20 April 2026)  

Born 1951 in Streatham, London. First attended speedway at Wimbledon in 1962 with his parents; his father had been a pre-war fan. Early impressions focused on the noise, smells, atmosphere, and the red-and-yellow team colours. Attended every Thursday meeting, typically from the main stand. Found entry moderately affordable, especially for children.  

He collected programmes (still owns his first), recalls hamburgers and a higher-end restaurant on site. Riders paraded before racing and were introduced by an announcer. Favourite rider was Ronnie Moore, twice World Champion, later a personal friend when Perkin became chairman of the club. Also admired riders such as Split Waterman, Ron How, and Trevor Hedge. Rivalry existed mainly with Hackney but without hostility.  

Described the audience as largely family-based, friendly, and non‑violent. Foreign riders often brought supporters, adding international flavour. The fan club ran social events and dances, funded by subscription, and produced a magazine.  

A standout event was the annual international meeting featuring 16 world riders—the winner received a new bike. Speedway nights sometimes included music or children’s entertainment.  

Perkin eventually became Chairman (c. 2020) of the Wimbledon team. The role was hands‑on: organising staff, maintaining the shale track (sometimes overnight), supporting injured riders (who were privately insured), and handling logistics. About half the workforce were volunteers.  

He described the sport as dangerous but disciplined—no brakes, speeds up to 80 mph. Safety improved over time: higher fences, better helmets, modern protective wear (leather to latex). Raceway upkeep was demanding compared with stock cars or greyhounds.  

He noted declining attendances due to loss of media coverage after the 1960s, though publicity efforts later partly revived crowds (typically 1,200–2,000). Speedway income came largely from ticket sales; the stadium owners retained catering revenue. Merchandise included scarves, programmes, photos, and postcards.  

Wimbledon Speedway’s closure (1981 and again around 2000) was “devastating.” Lack of investment and competition for riders led to decline; operations briefly moved to Eastbourne under the Wimbledon name.  

Perkin valued speedway’s sociable, non‑violent community; contrasted it favourably with football crowds. He donated £5,000 toward the Ronnie Moore sculpture outside the stadium.  

He attributes the sport’s overall decline to reduced press and television exposure but sees it thriving internationally—especially in Poland, now the sport’s global centre. Expressed hope that speedway may one day return to London and Wimbledon.