SWINDON Cycle Speedway celebrated their 40th anniversary at the weekend with a meeting that drew some of top riders from around the country.

A strong contingent of former Swindon riders were also in attendance, including Craig Nash, Pete Bennett, Darren Hicks and Andy Jeffries.

The main Open event on the day saw former world champion Steve Harris, reigning British champion Zack Payne and Mark Carmichael, current GB junior champion, up against some of Swindon’s best current riders.

The preliminary heats were eventful, with some tape exclusions for Payne and current Swindon club champion Rob Hunt, meaning they had a lot to do if they wanted a rostrum place.

There was some good clean racing throughout the day, with only two accidents. Some highlights included a win for Swindon teenager Jack Neighbour in heat 13, and fellow home rider James Bailey putting in a brave effort in heat 20, leading for three and three-quarter laps only to be pipped on the line by Harris.

The meeting was very close throughout and run offs were needed to decide the final placings.

Neighbour and Lewis Osbourne both finished with 17 points but the latter won their deciding head-to-head duel to take third place.

Leading the way were Harris and Carmichael on 19 points and the GB youngster won the toss for the inside gate in the race-off, getting away sharply to take the win and overall victory.

Before the main event there was an Intermediate meeting, which was won by Chris Davies on 20 points, one ahead of Swindon’s Bailey. Sean Bennett was third on 17.

In heat 12, local rider Matty Rayson broke his collar bone after a tangle with Bennett on the third bend and was unable to continue in the meeting.