A HEREFORD speedway star who enjoyed an illustrious 25-year career in the sport has died suddenly at the age of 45.

Tributes from the world of speedway have been pouring in for fans’ favourite Paul Fry, who was affectionately known as ‘Fryer’.

Almost 3,000 people have joined a tribute group on the social networking website Facebook and scores have posted messages and photographs.

Fry was a hugely-respected rider who started his speedway career with Cradley Heath in 1984.

He also had spells in King’s Lynn, Long Eaton, Arena Essex, Exeter, Stoke, Swindon, Newport, Peterborough, Somerset, Mildenhall and the Isle of Wight.

He rode for Newport last year and also briefly appeared for Poole.

Fry captained Newport and, at the time, was the second oldest rider in British Speedway.

Somerset Rebels hosted a testimonial for the popular rider in March 2007.

Somerset Rebels’ promoter Debbie Hancock said Fry would be remembered with fondness at the club.

“Paul will always be a part of Rebels history for the part he played in the club’s Premier League Fours Championship win in 2005. “Speedway has lost one of its favourite sons and the sport is all the poorer for his sad passing,” she said.

Paul was a fundraiser for the Hospice Angels, a group of motorcyclists who raise money for St Michael’s Hospice.

“Paul was a true gentleman who was very modest about his achievements in speedway,” said Hospice Angels founder Mike Pullin.

“He had some amazing years in speedway and never once boasted about his success,” he said.

“Paul was riding at Newport Wasps last year and they have asked the Hospice Angels to come down on Sunday to collect the money which was raised at their last meeting.”

“We will be getting on our bikes and paying our respects to Paul. All those who would like to join us on Sunday to say a farewell to Paul should meet at Monkton Farm Shop at 10am.”

Paul, who also enjoyed grasstrack racing and made his debut at 15 years old, is survived by wife Elaine and children Josh and Jess.

For details about the funeral service, call directors SA Evans on 01432 273736.