Revamped cycle speedway hub to reopen next week

Astley and Tyldesley Cycling Club will officially open their upgraded track next Wednesday (May 25), after securing funding with assistance from British Cycling to carry out the improvement works.

A key venue for cycle speedway in the North, the facility was built on a “shoestring budget” by volunteers 25 years ago. Thanks to the funding package, track has been rebuilt and re-profiled to modern standards, with new fencing, drainage and shale which will improve the experience for all riders.

The venue will officially reopen by staging round one of the Manchester League Grand Prix series, which will feature riders from Astley and Tyldesley, Bury, Sheffield and Stockport cycle speedway clubs.

Club secretary and founder member, Mike Hack, said: “This is a terrific boost to the club and will ensure that riders throughout the sport can enjoy racing at a top class facility. Reduced maintenance time and costs will enable the club to increase its development activities for the benefit of the local community. The new track will serve the club, the sport and the local community well for many years to come.”

John Mills, director of coaching, education and development at British Cycling, added: “It’s fantastic to see such a well-established and popular venue reopening after an upgrade. The improvement works will ensure that cycle speedway will continue to thrive in the area, and we were delighted to support this project.”