Danish rider Arne Pander, who was Oxford Cheetahs' first international star in the 1960s, has died aged 83.

Pander rode for the Oxford Cheetahs between 1959 and 1968 and regularly posted maximum points at meetings.

Before coming to the city he had won the Danish Championship in 1956 and 1958.

He quickly become a fans' favourite at Oxford Stadium after being signed by manager Ted Flanaghan, on the recommendation of former world champion Ove Fundin.

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In July 1961 he suffered a fractured skull in an accident in Coventry and was out of action until the 1963 racing season, but returned in formidable form.

His career with Oxford continued until 1968 when he suffered a series of accidents that brought about his departure.

Cliff Peasley, former treasurer of the Oxford Speedway Supporters Club, said: “Arne Pander was our first world class rider, who could beat anyone.

“If he hadn’t suffered that fractured skull at Coventry in 1961, I’m convinced he would have been world champion.”

After leaving speedway, Pander remained in England, in Kings Lynn where he died.

Robert Peasley, a spokesman for Oxford Speedway, said: “To Oxford Cheetahs’ fans, he will always remain a hero.”