On Friday 8th July 1977, a new sport arrived in Blantyre. Speedway!
The Glasgow Tigers had found a new home moving from Coatbridge and they held their first speedway race in Blantyre against Crayford Kestrels that day. Pictured is the enthusiastic crowd on that day. Recognise anybody?
A bit more about opening day. Programmes were sold for 15p each to the large crowds assembled, of which many people were from Blantyre. The sport saw a new fanbase locally and speedway was well received (if you lived at least 200 yards away from the noise). The 1977 team included Jimmy Gallagher, Derek Richardson, Grahame Dawson, Nicky Hollingworth, Mick McKeon, Merv Janke, Brian Collins, Johnny Hack and Benny Rourke.
Right away, the Tigers attracted young and old fans and local, excited support for the team was assured right from the beginning.
