Well-known former Eastbourne Eagles manager and promoter Jon Cook has died at the age of 55.

Cook, who lived in Shoreham and also had football connections at local junior (boys) level, passed away on Monday.

He first became co-promoter at Eastbourne Speedway in 1993 when he joined Len Silver.

During his initial spell at Arlington he won the league title in both 1995 and 2000 and also the Knockout Cup three times.

He returned to Arlington in 2019, where he grew up after leaving for Lakeside Hammers in 2007.

At the same time, he became leaseholder of Arlington Stadium, with Martin Dugard, but stepped back from his speedway role because of a potential conflict of interests.

Director of Eastbourne Speedway, Ian Jordan, said news of Jon’s death was “shocking and frankly numbing” for everyone involved at Eastbourne Speedway both from the past and right up to the present day. 

“Obviously, our thoughts are with Jon’s sons and his ex-wife and current partner; and all of his extended family and close friends and associates.

"I’m sure that everyone involved with Eastbourne as Riders, Sponsors, Officials ; Supporters; Staff and Management who have worked with and for Jon, or supported Teams he was involved with, including some halcyon days; will hear this news with great sadness on a personal level and want to remember Jon fondly for his commitment and work for both our Club and also The Lakeside/Thurrock Hammers and for the Sport in general."

Cook was also a former vice-chairman of British Speedway.

British Speedway Chairman Rob Godfrey said: “Everyone connected with British Speedway promoters Ltd is in shock at this news.

"Our first thoughts are with Jon’s family.

“Personally I always got on well with Jon, we had lots of discussions about the sport and when he was interested in taking on the chairman’s role he stood aside to allow me to take on the role. That speaks volumes for the man.

“I really cannot believe this news and on behalf of everyone in British Speedway I pass on our sincere condolences to Jon’s family at this deeply difficult time.”