Murray Walker 'astounded' by reunion with father's racing motorbike

VETERAN broadcaster and motorsports commentator Murray Walker was for once left speechless after he was reunited with one of his father’s old Rudge racing motorbikes.

During a Royal Automobile Club dinner, where he was a guest of honour, the 90-year-old ‘voice of Formula 1’ was overwhelmed by a surprise unveiling of a group of classic racers that had been assembled by the Club on his behalf.

Ever-fewer people remember that Graham Walker, Murray’s father, was a hugely successful motorbike racer with brands including Rudge.

His Ulster Grand Prix victory in 1929 prompted the release of the Rudge Ulster model, which went on to became one of its most famous. The bike was advertised as "probably the fastest 500cc motorcycle in production".

Another bike among those assembled had been specially shipped over from Australia for the occassion and hasn’t been seen in the UK for more than 60 years.

Murray was reportedly deeply moved by the sight of the old racing warhorse. “For once I’m almost speechless,” said the 90 year-old broadcaster. “This is absolutely astounding. My father was a great man to me. I have fifteen silver replicas of his TT bikes and to see these here together after all these years is overwhelming.”

By Press Association reporter