Matchams

Directions:- Probably the easiest location to get to from Ringwood. Take the A31/ Verwood turn off and Matchams Lane is on the left. Follow this lane for a couple of miles and Matchams Tracks are on the right.

Photo Interest:- There are various opportunities to shoot race cars/bangers most Saturday nights on the oval track and motocross most week ends during the day. There has been the occasional British Motocross Championship event held there which is when the above photo was taken. Car parking is free once the event entrance fee has been paid, but facilities are very basic with the toilets mainly consisting of 'Portaloos'. However there are plenty of locations in which the photographer can tuck himself away in to shoot the riders 'flying' as they come over the hills and jumps. The oval track necessitates shooting through wire which isn't my favourite method of photography.

Drawbacks:- The events at Matchams are never very well advertised outside the enthusiasts circle and it is only at weekends that the main gate seems to be staffed, so getting info is a little difficult. There are also continuing rumours that 'it is being sold'. 'it is being closed down because of health and safety', 'there is a housing estate going to be built on it' etc. etc. These have persisted for years and yet it still continues in one form or another. If you are thinking of going visit the preceding week end to find out what the current situation is. Can be very muddy in wet weather and dusty in dry on the motocross tracks. Tarmac/concrete round the oval raceway.