THE only rider to killed whilst racing for speedway legends the Cradley Heathens died 50 years ago this week.

Ivor Hughes, nicknamed the Welsh Wizard, crashed in a British League match at Dudley Wood against Sheffield in 1966, just as he was on the cusp of worldwide stardom in the sport.

The popular 27-year-old had three wins under his belt during the meeting before suffering the fateful crash on August 20.

He was rushed to Dudley Guest Hospital and spent days in a critical condition with serious head injuries, eventually losing his battle and sending the speedway world into mourning.

The Welshman was lauded as one of the most improved riders in British speedway at the time, after breaking into the Dudley Wood side as a novice reserve a couple of years earlier.

One of his best performances was less than a fortnight before his death against visiting Swedish side Vagarna where he beat reigning world champion Bjorn Knutsson in the Scratch Race Final, clocking one of the fastest times of the season at Dudley Wood.

Cradley Heathens chairman Nigel Pearson paid tribute to the legendary rider who has a place in every Heathens fan's heart.

He said: "Ivor rode 54 times for Cradley, scoring over 200 points so who knows how many more appearances he could have made and how far he could have gone in the sport?

"The signs had been so positive after doubling his average in the first part of 1966 and showing such tremendous potential."

He added: "The memory of the ‘Welsh Wizard’ has been honoured by the Heathens ever since.

"An Ivor Hughes Memorial Trophy has been awarded at various times. In the 1960s and 70s, it was earned by riders such as Dave Perks, Paul Share and John Hack."

In the modern era the trophy has been presented as Rider of the Year award to riders including both Ashley Morris and current captain Max Clegg and a full tribute to Ivor appeared in the club's last home programme against Birmingham.

Mr Pearson added: "Cradley Heathens Speedway Club are united with all supporters and everyone associated with Ivor's friends and family in marking this occasion to remember him."