SHEFFIELD legend Sean Wilson has revealed how Maurice Ducker played a massive part in the early days of his professional career.

Ducker owned Tigers the last time they were in the top division in 1988 and passed away earlier this week aged 76.

He was a successful promoter who became chairman of the British Speedway Promoters’ Association and also ran A&E Transport in the city.

Wilson, who started and ended his glittering career at Owlerton, has admitted how Ducker’s partnership with team manager Eric Boocock was pivotal to the success of the club with riders like American brothers Shawn and Kelly Moran thrilling fans.

He said: “We had some really good seasons, and that was because everybody was happy, which really was the case all the time I was at Sheffield.

“Maurice ran the whole shebang, and he and Eric bounced off each other really well. It made the whole vibe of the team good.”

Fans have been paying tribute to Ducker with messages on the club’s social media channels.

Steven Marshall said: “So sad, absolutely my era. Thank you Maurice for lifelong memories.”

Graham Beck wrote: “He didn't suffer fools (at all) but he put a lot of time and effort into Sheffield Speedway for which we should be forever grateful.”

And Nigel Lawes added: Rest in peace Maurice. Thank you for building an awesome team to watch during a golden era of speedway. I will be forever grateful for the memories of those happy days.”