King's Lynn Stars pay tribute after death of iconic commentator and broadcaster Nigel Pearson

The King’s Lynn Stars and speedway visitors Peterborough Panthers tonight paid tribute to popular writer and broadcaster Nigel Pearson, who passed away on Friday.

Riders, fans, promoters, staff and pit crews from both sides performed a minute's applause before their league cup derby for Pearson who was known for his television speedway, darts and football work. A pint of Guinness – Pearson's favourite drink – was laid on-track.

The 52 year-old was also a familiar figure around the Adrian Flux Arena, usually conducting Press and Practice days, team announcement days and "an evening with" events such as his popular pairing with co-commentator Kelvin Tatum and individual rider nights for the likes of Dersingham's Lewis Kerr.

He was well-known for leading a team of journalists who produce press releases and meeting programmes for the club.

Earlier Lynn operations manager Dale Allitt had said: “I think I can speak for most people when I say numb, sadness and deep sorrow are the feelings I had on Friday.

“I’ve known Nige for many, many years both as a commentator, a speedway boss, a work colleague through his media company, but most of all a friend.

“Nige was the sort of guy who could always put a smile on your face even in the darkest of times… the phone calls where we put the world to rights, or the drinks in a bar or hotel, we’ve always had a laugh.

“Nigel’s passion for all the sports he was involved with was infectious, he loved his job, and just last week we were chatting on how he was ‘living the dream’ going round the world doing something he loved."

Stars team boss Alex Brady after Thursday's meeting paid tribute to both Pearson and former speedway manager and promoter Colin Pratt who settled in West Norfolk before he died in recent years.

This week's clashes with Peterborough were held for the Colin Pratt Memorial Trophy, won by Lynn after their 42-48 and 47-43 away and home successes respectively.