Bill Slaughter RIP

Speedway super fan Bill Slaughter has died.

He loved his sport and was particularly known for encouraging young riders.

Bill spent three seasons driving Kelsey Dugard to meetings all over the country.

Kelsey said yesterday (April 19) that it was a “dark day in the Kelsey Dugard Racing camp”.

Niall Strudwick was another to pay tribute to Mr Slaughter for his support and commitment to speedway.

William (Bill) Slaughter was a long-time Wimbledon fan.

During the time when the Dons ran in the Conference League he had helped the club with Press and media work.

In more recent times he had been a familiar figure at both Eastbourne Speedway and Kent’s Central Park.

Kelsey said: “Bill came on board in late 2015 and was my driver for three seasons.

“He would also take myself and Alex Spooner to Poultec [near Norwich]. 

“He loved his away trips and was always full of spirits when he picked me up from my workshop. 

“He was a brilliant guy that would help out anyone in any situation and he was very excited with every forthcoming season.

“Bill got me out of a lot of bad situations and was always there to lend an ear when needed, 

“We will all miss you bill from myself and everyone at Kelsey Dugard Racing.

“Rest in peace ‘Billiam’.”

Niall Strudwick recorded his sadness at the death.

“Bill was always a great person to talk to at Eastbourne and always helped out where he could, whether it was good words of encouragement or financial support.

“Bill knew me and my cousin Lee from the Wimbledon days back in 2005 but it wasn’t till a few years later that I got to know Bill a lot more at Eastbourne.

“We always had a good laugh and put the speedway world to rights each week.” 

Bill Slaughter’s knowledge of speedway stretched back many years and was a particular fan of one of the great New Zealanders who rode for Wimbledon, Ronnie Moore.

All at the Eagles send our thoughts and condolences to Bill’s family and friends.

Image by kind permission of Niall Strudwick