HAMMERS SET UP RICO FUND

HAMMERS SET UP RICO FUND

Wednesday 16th May 2012, 09:22

Lakeside have set up a support fund for British legend Lee Richardson’s family following his passing in Poland on Sunday.

The Hammers skipper, 33, left behind wife Emma and sons Josh, Jake and Jenson and the speedway family has rallied round the Richardson family in their hour of need.

The Essex outfit will race at Poole tonight – their first meeting since the tragedy in Wroclaw – and they will also host Swindon at the Arena-Essex Raceway on Friday night.

Both meetings will offer fans the chance to share memories of the former Grand Prix star. Fans attending Friday’s meeting will also be able to sign a book of condolence, as well as leave floral tributes and donations to the Richardson family.

In addition, Lakeside are looking into staging a special meeting in Richardson’s memory at some stage.

"There is so much shock and grief in the speedway world at the loss of Lee that we have to turn that into something positive. We can all do no better than helping to financially support Emma and the boys."

- Jon Cook

Hammers co-promoter Jon Cook told the club’s website: “There is so much shock and grief in the speedway world at the loss of Lee that we have to turn that into something positive. We can all do no better than helping to financially support Emma and the boys.

“Hopefully all clubs all over the world will join with us in helping to make their future a little more secure.

“It’s the best way we can honour such a lovely man. Obviously Lee’s colleagues want to help and we will be talking with the top riders to find the best date for a meeting in Lee’s memory.”

Cook defended his side’s decision to get back on track so soon after their skipper’s passing and admitted the side wanted to stick together.

He added: “The team wants to spend some time reflecting together and that’s why we have decided to get back racing on Wednesday.

“We can all grieve alone in our different towns or countries, but we are better off together as I know our fans will also want to be on Friday.

“Robbo (Stuart Robson) is coming down to replace Kim (Nilsson) on Wednesday as he is in a Swedish Championship qualifier that day. We felt it totally inappropriate to use guests, which may have artificially strengthened our team. We will go on from this together for Lee.”

In the next few days, online donations will be possible via a link on the Hammers website. But cheques, made payable to Emma Richardson, can now be sent to Gerald Richter, The Speedway Office, Lakeside Hammers Speedway, Arena Essex Raceway, A1306 Arterial Road, Thurrock, Essex RM19 1AE. Full bank account details for direct payments will be available shortly.

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