33/18 News has just learnt of the news that former Wednesfield rider Mick Aris has died. Below is how the news was reported on the Wednesfield Aces CSC Facebook page by their president Paul Bodley:
“The Wednesfield Aces Club is sad to announce the death of longtime legendary rider Mick Aris at the age of 73.
“Mick died after a long and courageous fight against cancer.
“To Theresa, Wayne, Lee, Michelle and all of Mick’s extended family we send our clubs heartfelt sympathy at this difficult time.
“I first met Mick in 1965 he was 13 and I was 17, a local lad from Ashmore Park in Wednesfield. Mick personified every thing that was good in cycle speedway, fierce rivalry on the track and good humour and friendship off the track.”
“Mick was responsible in no small way for bringing together the riders that would go on to form the Aces team of the 70’s and 80’s that so dominated our sport.
“I will miss Mick as a friend of over 60 years, our sport will miss a rider of great ability and a person with a warm and engaging personality and one of the finest team riders of his generation.
“In the very near future the club will honour Mick in its own way on the track with a remembrance day and to honour Micks final wishes to have his ashes scattered on the Ashmore Park track where he had some of his finest moments.”
Everyone in the Cycle Speedway community as well as all at 33/18 News offer their condolences to Mick’s family and friends. Funeral details will be published when they are available
