The south-west speedway community is mourning the death of the man credited with saving Laang Speedway.
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Former driver and long-time administrator Ken Willsher died suddenly on Monday. He was 59.
Willsher was a former president, vice president, track curator and sponsor of the club.
He was also a Premier Speedway board member.
Laang Speedway Club treasurer Kathryn Wines said she was lost for words.
“It’s a big loss,” she said.
“And he definitely leaves a legacy.
“He was loyal, hard-working and dedicated, especially to Laang Speedway and the formula 500s in general.”
Wines said the popular speedway identity had a greater impact than any honour board would suggest.
She spoke of his helpful nature and the support he offered her as treasurer, especially when first taking on the role.
“He was just an all-round good bloke who never had a bad word to say about anyone,” she said.
"He was always helpful and encouraging of people, particular new drivers and young ones who he would always help out.
"He was just so loyal and always got in and did what was best for the club.”
The club treasurer said she believed Willsher was always going to be involved in speedway.
"I guess being a local and the speedway is on his grandfather's land, so it has been in his backyard his whole life,” she said.
“He was just brought up with it loved it. If it is in your blood, it is in your blood.”
As a sign of respect the Premier Speedway flew its flag at half mast on Tuesday.
Willsher is survived by his wife Cheryl and four children Brett, Kylie, Melissa and Stephanie.
