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FORMER World Champion Freddie Williams has passed away in Swindon Hospital at the age of 86.
Welshman Williams, who is understood to have suffered a stroke, became the first British rider to win two World titles, in 1950 and 1953, a feat only matched by Peter Craven.
Williams spent his entire racing career with Wembley between 1947 and 1956, winning five National League titles with the Lions.
His younger brother Ian then rode for Swindon from 1952-1963, and Freddie was a regular visitor to the Abbey Stadium in recent years – and also presented the winner’s trophy at last season’s British Grand Prix.

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PLYMOUTH’S new consortium have completed the formalities of setting up the new company which will be responsible for running the Devils this season.
The club’s 2013 line-up sees Cory Gathercole back as skipper with fellow Australians Ty Proctor and Mark Lemon joining the club. Ricky Kling and Chris Schramm are also new signings for the Devils, whilst Todd Kurtz and Ben Reade return from last year’s squad and David Short, formerly of Exeter, has been appointed as the overseeing promoter.
Director Ashley Taylor said: “The next steps are to sign the lease agreement with the governors of St Boniface College and also officially complete the purchase of Plymouth speedway from Mike Bowden.
“We have already reached agreement with the riders who will represent the team for the coming season and we are now in a position to complete their contracts and lodge them with the BSPA.”

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EMERSON Jones will take his place in the Stoke line-up this season after a hectic week of discussions between rider and club.
The teenager was set to make his National League debut with the Potters, before informing the club of a change of heart in order to focus on motocross – but personal issues have now been resolved.
Stoke promoter Dave Tattum said: “When we were informed by Emerson that he’d had a change of heart we were devastated by his decision, but we feel he is an extremely talented rider and after leaving things for a few days spoke to him and after some dialogue between us he has decided he wants to race speedway after all.” 
Jones added: “My original decision not to ride speedway came about because of some personal difficulties which I’m pleased to say have been resolved, and I’m now looking forward to racing for Stoke Potters in the National League in 2013.”