Radio-controlled car club heads to Oldham

A POPULAR club could be created in Oldham with radio-controlled cars set to whizz around a local track once again.

Bury Metro Radio Car Club is looking to switch venues to Oldham and has an inaugural event taking place on Sunday from 10am.

The club’s Bury facility is under threat so if the race day at the newly built Radclyffe School sports hall in Chadderton is a success, then it could become its new base.

Oldham Radio Car Club used to be a popular and busy club at Fitton Hill before it closed. It’s thought a new club in the borough could recreate the glory years.

A series of six events have been organised at Radclyffe over the winter.

Some 50 competitors, some travelling from as far afield as the Midlands and North Yorkshire, are booked in on Sunday to race 1/10th scale electric powered cars (pictured above) and more are expected on the day.

The club was established in 1984 as Bury Model Shop Buggy Club and in 1991 became Bury Metro RCC when it moved to the Goshen Sports Centre where a purpose-built outdoor track was created.

It currently has 20 members but is keen to expand.

Not having an indoor centre has hit the club over the last few years as it has ruled out winter events.

Member Peter Byrom (31), from Oldham, said: “It’s a nice, safe, clean hobby and there’s a lot of friendly people involved.

“Sunday’s event is not something that people can take part in on the day without equipment but we are keen for spectators to come along and have a look at us — and for young people to get involved.

“The Bury facility is a permanent outdoor facility that’s been there for 15 years at the site of the sports centre but the gym burnt down.

“They are looking to redevelop the site and it’s put our track under threat.”

Club membership costs £5 a year.

Racers must also join the British Radio Car Association at £12 a year, but that provides third party insurance cover and allows entry to national or regional race meetings.

Check out the website at bmrcc.talktalk.net for more details.