OBITUARY: RIP Brian Barnett

We received the sad news on Sunday evening that Brian Barnett, a former rider, avid Cycle Speedway fan and photographer, was announced as the cyclist killed in an early morning accident in South East London last week.

East London CSC’s Kevin Smith has paid tribute to Brian, talking to 33/18 News: “Brain had raced for East London for several seasons, before moving onto Great Wakering, where he seemed to excel at his racing.

“After a few nasty falls Brian decided to hang up his wheels and throw himself into his other passion of traveling up and down the country taking photographs of cycle speedway racing and events and this is what Brian will probably be best known for.

“More recently, Brian had to give up driving owing to health issues, and as he had his own business this was probably why he was on a bicycle at 4.30am in the morning on that fateful day.

“Sadly, another loss to the sport of cycle speedway, but at least his legacy will still live on in the many photos he took over the years. They can be seen at : www.cyclespeedwayphotos.co.uk

Brian regularly sent his photos to us for 33/18 News, especially in the beginning of the website when he was still able to get around by car.

READ: Brian Barnett’s tragic accident made national news

Tributes have been pouring in on our Facebook page, where we initially announced the news following national press coverage on Sunday evening.

Joe McLaughlin commented: “This is terrible to learn. Brian was a lovely man, who had not been in the best of health these last few years. Always with plenty of Cycle Speedway chat to share, his passion for the sport was there for all to see. A selfless volunteer for the sport. Another of the good guys gone. RIP Brian.”

Ewan Tullock added: “Absolutely heartbroken to read this, always loved looking a Brian’s photos in my East London days especially as this was pre-internet / Facebook days when pics weren’t so readily available! RIP Brian.”

While Hellingly’s Barry Carpenter said: ” So sorry to read this, RIP Brian, a great guy – Very sad.”

Brian is survived by a son Tony, two sisters Janice and Shirley, and brother Kevin.

33/18 News would like to offer all the friends and family of Brian our sincere condolences at this sad time.