Ray Dearman describes a lifelong connection to Wimbledon Speedway, first attending as a baby in 1959 and continuing until the stadium’s closure in 2017. His family background was closely tied to the sport: his father worked at the OK Sauce factory and also as a track raker, and was personally connected to riders. Speedway was therefore a normal part of family life from early childhood.

He recalls early memories largely through family stories, including being taken around the track as a baby by Ronnie Moore, whom he repeatedly identifies as a favourite rider and a symbol of the sport’s friendly culture. From childhood onward, he attended regularly with his father, who also guided him around the stadium and explained the racing.

Dearman emphasises the atmosphere and emotional experience of speedway rather than results. He describes it as “electric,” with intense noise, fuel smells, and fast, brake-less racing contributing to a unique sensory environment. Race nights followed a familiar structure with rider parades, music, gate selection, and four-rider heats. Injuries were part of the sport but not central to his memory of it.

He strongly characterises the speedway community as a “family,” including riders, staff, and supporters. Riders were accessible and friendly, and supporter involvement was high, including volunteering and occasional financial support for equipment. He also notes affordability, with very low entry prices enabling regular attendance across social groups.

The stadium is remembered as busy and inclusive, with strong crowds and visiting supporters. Merchandise and programmes were widely available, and fan culture included shared rituals and identity. Rivalries are described as generally respectful, with minimal disorder and strong camaraderie among supporters.

Dearman links his speedway involvement to broader community values, later applying similar principles in workplace social organisation. He describes the closure of the stadium as deeply upsetting and reflects on missed redevelopment opportunities. He strongly supports the idea of speedway returning, seeing it as an important part of local identity and community life.