Tributes paid to Kirkcaldy Motor Club champion Colin Campbell

Colin Campbell pictured with the Fidelity Trophy in 1953 (Pic: Kirkcaldy & District Motor Club)

Colin Campbell an ex-Scottish motorcycle champion during the 1950's, died on April 20 after a long illness at the age of 90.

Jake Drummond, Secretary and Archivist at Kirkcaldy & District Motor Club, said: "He will be sorely missed by his many friends and family.

“Our condolences go out to his family, especially his wife Judith, at this time.”

Though hailing from Edinburgh, Colin was a member of the Kirkcaldy & District Motor Club during his racing years, competing during the heyday of the 250cc class where his New Imperial special was up against the likes of Charlie Bruce and Dennis Ritchie, among others who would go on to make a name for themselves in the sport.

He took his 'New Imp' to the West Sands at St Andrews, and raced at all of the Scottish circuits; reliability in both rider and machine gaining him many top finishes.

At Beveridge Park in 1952 Colin Campbell raced the New Imperial to a fourth place in his heat behind third placed JW Clark, Denny Ritchie and winner Charlie Bruce; the quality 250cc riders of their day, which allowed him to start in the final.

According to the Kirkcaldy Times newspaper, he was “unseated at the Railway Dip on the third lap”.

In 1953 Colin returned to the park circuit on an overcast July day and rode well to win in his heat of the 250cc event.

Faced with strong opposition he followed it up with lap record setting 54.83mph win in the final ahead of Ron McCutcheon from Wigtown, with Newcastle rider JR Rutherford finishing third.

Such was the pace that Jackie Horne and Charlie Bruce both suffered engine problems; young Horne at ‘The Snake’ and Bruce dropping a valve at the ‘Raith Bend’.

Birmingham rider Len Parry – expected to be a challenge to record holder Bob McIntyre in the 350 and 500 classes but which failed to materialise - was fifth, having an unexpected extra ride on the very quick Furneaux NSU Special after its owner took a tumble during practice.

Colin won the 'Fidelity Challenge Trophy' for his efforts.