OPENING NIGHT FLOWER GIRL PASSES AWAY

Poole speedway are saddened to learn of the recent death of Pat Smith, wife of former club captain Pete.

Pat, 78, had been suffering with dementia for the past seven years and Pete sold his car sales business in Verwood to be able to dedicate the time to care for his wife's needs. "We were married for 58 years and the last seven were tough but we had so much joy together. Pat died in our home at Ringwood with her loved ones around her and that was the way she had always wanted it."

As a local girl, Pat's connection with Poole Speedway dates back longer than that of her husband, the two meeting when Pete joined the Pirates in 1963. Pete recalled "Pat was part of Poole Speedway from the very start and she was chosen to present a bouquet of flowers to the Mayor on opening night back in 1948, a duty that she was honoured to fulfil. Pat was very much the driving force behind my racing career and we created many happy memories together"

Club owner Matt Ford, in a tribute to Pat said "I was very fortunate to meet with Pat during the early part of my tenure as promoter and she and Pete were part and parcel of the club. You could immediately see what they each meant to one another, they made a lovely couple and it is very sad to learn that Pat has passed away. My condolences go out to Pete and the rest of the family at this difficult time.