FORMER Pirates boss Neil Street is bowing out of British speedway after completing more than five decades of service to the shale sport in this country.

The highly respected 79-year-old, Poole team manager from 1985 to 1998, first arrived in Britain as a budding young rider in 1952.

With the exception of a few seasons here and there, Street has been based in Devon ever since, during which time he has ridden, team managed, engine tuned and engine developed.

But he will leave his Exeter home for the final time in October to return to his Melbourne roots where he has spent many winters involved in Australia’s speedway scene.

Before Street relinquishes his current post as Newport Hornets joint boss, Poole legend Craig Boyce is determined to help put together a top-class 16-man field of Aussies to compete for ‘Neil Street’s Kangaroo Cup’ in a farewell-benefit at Newport.

The date will probably be Friday, September 17, although it is yet to be confirmed.

Boyce hopes the likes of current Castle Cover Pirates stars Chris Holder, Davey Watt, Darcy Ward and Jason Doyle will be available, along with other Aussies, including Street’s grandson, Jason Crump and Leigh Adams.

Australia’s current team manager said: “Keith Davies, at Newport, asked me to get involved and there was no way I was going to say ‘no’ after what Neil has done for me.

“Neil’s going home in the first week of October so we’re aiming to put on something special for him – 20 heats, semi-final and final with only Aussies involved.

“All the Aussie boys will want to be there to give Streetie a great send-off.

“Speedway’s in his blood and you can’t slow him down. He’s been a massive ambassador for the sport and I’m sure he’ll continue his involvement back in Aussie.

“He’ll still pop his head up at the Aussie championships this winter. You’ll never get him to stay away from the sport.”

Street, who managed Australia to World Team Cup glory in 1999, 2001 and 2002, guided Poole to Elite League title success in 1994.

He also led Pirates to the National League crown in 1989 and 1990 and Knockout Cup in 1990.

Street rode with distinction for Exeter (1952-55 and 1966-70), Swindon (1957-1963) and Newport (1972-76) and also managed Weymouth, Exeter and Newport Wasps.

Boyce said: “I’m hoping there will be a big turnout of supporters at Newport to bid farewell to Neil.”