OBITUARY: Ted Eaglen

Words from Mel Perkins MBE

HETHERSETT HAWKS / YELLOW BRICK MORTGAGES have been in existence since 1966 but the sport in the village goes back much longer. The infamous Hethersett Hornets ruled the cinder and dirt tracks of the 1940s and early 1950s, so much so that folklore has it that they were forced to pack up because no-one could beat them!!! (Truth probably is that after riders did their National Service they were not tempted back on bikes!!).

The Hornets raced on two tracks in Hethersett, one on a field off what is now part of New Road (known locally then as Kenny Woods’s Loke) and the other being at the Parish Pit, a natural bowl caused by excavating marl for building purposes.

One of the stars of the Hornets was Ted Eaglen who won the first ever Norfolk Championship in 1950 on the Earlham track, still partially visible next to the Black Horse pub. Sadly, we have been informed that Ted has passed away and the cycle-speedway world passes its condolences to his family and friends. His funeral is at St Faiths Crematorium on 27th April at 3.30 p.m..

Ted’s son Trevor would love to hear of any stories of the Hornets and his father’s involvement and any communications can be forwarded via the Hawks Club.

Meanwhile the Hawks will strive to continue such a fine legacy.