THE Bramford Cock pub near Ipswich became the place to be for classic motorcycle enthusiasts everywhere as the Ipswich Motorcycle Club held an evening of nostalgia to reunite some of the region's most popular names from the golden years of off-road motorcycle sport.

THE Bramford Cock pub near Ipswich became the place to be for classic motorcycle enthusiasts everywhere as the Ipswich Motorcycle Club held an evening of nostalgia to reunite some of the region's most popular names from the golden years of off-road motorcycle sport.

More than 70 people attended the event, many of whom had raced either in scrambles or trials events during the 1950s through to the 1970s.

Among the guests were the 1960 and 1961 250cc European scrambles champion Dave Bickers of Coddenham, who brought along his personal collection of pictures of scrambling and trials events he had accrued over the past five decades.

Other former national and local stars in attendance included Peter Smith, Tim Robinson, Peter Davy, Tony Crouch, Eddie Cordle, Dennis Howard, Chris Ginn, Brian Osborn, Freddie Mayes, brothers Brian and John Ford and many more.

On display were photos, programmes, various newspapers cuttings from the East Anglian Daily Times and Evening Star and a hefty amount of film footage from scrambles held over the country during the period.

The event was organised by Ipswich MCC secretary Dave Cordle, himself a former European scrambles ace.

He said: “It was great to see so many popular riders from the old days reunited once again.

“The interest in the sport at the time was truly phenomenal and, even though the world of motorcycling has moved on, people never forget the excitement they felt racing and spectating at scrambles during the era.”

The international scrambles held at nearby Shrubland Park were at the centre of much conversation.

The circuit, which staged its last scramble in 1966, regularly drew more than 22,000 people, all travelling to the event from nearby villages such as Claydon, Bramford and Barham, with crowds of spectators travelling to the circuit on the Bickers buses.

In 1967, the international event moved to Hintlesham Hall, near Hadleigh where some of the best riders in the country appeared, travelling from far and wide to take part. These included Bryan Wade, Chris Horsefield, Malcolm Davis and other local heroes Adrian Yallop, John Banks and Jim Aim.

Another reunion is planned for next year. For more information call Dave Cordle on 01473 462274.

Do you remember the scrambles at Hintlesham Hall? If so write to Michael Eustace, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich or email michael.eustace@archant.co.uk