Daredevil motorbike hero Don dies at 94

A well-known track racer who won national acclaim and was dubbed "the wizard of Willenhall" because of his daredevil style and ability has died aged 94.

Don Evans, who was born in Wednesfield and lived in New Invention for most of his life, became a legend in motorcycle racing circles and won a host of awards during a glittering career that stretched two decades.

He started racing motorcycles with the Kinver Auto Club in the early 1930s, taking part in scrambles up grass tracks all around the region on a 350 New Imperial bike.

It was the start of a journey that was to make him one of the best-known circuit racers in the country, particularly in the post-war era that could see thousands flock to a competition.

A fruit and vegetable wholesaler by trade, Mr Evans spent his time away from the job taking part in amateur and then professional races to earn him some money on the side.

One of the highlights of his career came on Easter Monday in 1946, when he took part in a three-quarter mile race at a circuit in Derby called Wingfield Park which attracted between 30,000 and 40,000 people.

Over the years he scooped four gold medals, winning every race he took part in bar one, and making a UK-class Moto-Cross Des Nations squad of talent, as part of a team that beat nations from across the world at a 1950 event in Sweden.

He was also a keen golfer and had four holes-in-one during his time on the green, as well as a handicap of 12 at the age of 84.

His son Michael, aged 65, said: "He was a very competitive man and wanted to cram as much as he could into his life. He succeeded in business, in sport and as a father."

Mr Evans also leaves a wife, Renee, aged 89, a daughter Christine, 68, and six grandchildren.