Tuesday July 2, 2019 at 3:01pm
The Eastern centre has recently learnt of the passing of three stalwarts of motocross within the Eastern region.
Very sad to report that John Lockwood from the Lowestoft area has died. John was a former rider back in the 1950' and 60's, and later supported his son, David, who for several years was a leading expert grade rider. John was also involved with the popular pre 65 motocross scene.
The Diss club has announced the passing of Mike Bavin. A true gentleman, Mike was involved in obtaining the use of Wattisfield Hall for the Diss club at around 1962. A noted Yamaha dealer for many years, Mike sponsored several leading Eastern centre riders over a long period of time. Previously, he was a Husqvarna dealer, and his son, Peter, who still competes at trials, was one of the centre's top expert MX riders during the 1970's and 80's.
Recently the Eastern centre has lost another true gentleman of our sport with the sad passing of Bob Harvey. In his day, Bob was a fine expert grade rider,and competed on a number of different machines, notably on one of the popular BSA Victor bikes, but it was the sight of Bob charging around the Eastern region's circuits on a little Italian Moto Gori that will be remembered by race goers.
On retiring from competing, Bob was heavily involved at the early stages of the Norfolk and Suffolk schoolboy club, and along with his brother Wilf, hosted many youth meetings at Blaxhall and early enduro events, which raised money for the eventual purchase of the Blaxhall facilty.
Once again, another family affair, as sons, Matthew and Simon followed in Bob's footsteps. Simon concentrating on trials and enduro bikes, whilst elder son Matthew became one of the Eastern centre's top riders and with the support of Yamaha UK, represented his country in the European under 21 des nations.
To the family's of these three gentlemen, officials of the Eastern centre send their heartfelt condolences at this sad time.