Speedway racing in Southampton was held at Banister Court Stadium, built in 1928. The original idea, when the land was purchased in 1927, was to build a greyhound racing track, but it was soon decided to add a speedway track to the design. The stadium was situated to the south of, and adjacent to, the cricket ground in Northlands Road. Charles Knott, after whom Charles Knott Gardens was later named, was the leading man behind the venture. He formed the company which bought the land and then managed the stadium and site.
A 'Saints' speedway team was formed in 1928 and the following year joined the Southern League. Their most successful season was in 1962 when they won the National League Championship. Ironically, the stadium closed just one year later and was demolished in 1964. Greyhound racing, stock car racing, boxing and other sports were also held here, and an Ice Skating rink was built to the south of the stadium. Charles Knott Gardens now occupies the site.
Speedway Stadium
An aerial view of the stadium in 1939
Speedway Stadium×
see also
Further reading:
The Stadium, Southampton, by C. R. Bayley. (HS/r)
Southampton Speedway, by Paul Eustace. (HS/r)
Spitfire see Mitchell, R. J.
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