The Riders - E

Bryan Elliott:  Locally-born Elliott had a 10 year career with Leicester and Coventry in the 1960s, prior to joining the Dukes for 1965 - what would be his only season at Halifax.  A World-Finalist in 1960 (he failed to score) and British Finalist in 1964, "Chirpy" became a fan favourite during 1965, riding in 33 official matches at an average of just under 6 points.  Nevertheless, it proved to be his final season, announcing his retirement at the end of 1965.  Elliott and his family emigrated to Adelaide, Australia, where he remained until his death in 2015, aged 85.

Neil Evitts:  Birmingham-born Evitts originally rode under-age and was banned until his 16th birthday.  Spells with Wolverhampton and Birmingham in the early 80s showed little to suggest he would become a fan favourite at The Shay.  When the Brummies pulled out of the league on the eve of the 84 season however, the Dukes stepped in.  Evitts became the sparring partner to Carter, a solid scoring 2nd heat leader through 84 and 85, assuming the leadership of the team during Carter's injury lay-offs.  Evitts stayed with the Dukes following the move to Odsal, and in 1986 became British Champion in the aftermath of Carter's death.  An 8th place in the World Final that year was the peak of his career, as he led the Dukes through a traumatic time.  He remained with the Dukes until the end of 1990, when he was released, and enjoyed 2 successful seasons with Sheffield in the 2nd tier, but drifted into retirement in 1995. Also noted as a top engine-tuner, he was in Gary Havelock's corner in the World Final in 1992.