A Tribute To Tom Slater
The Mercia H.B.M. Cycling Club lost one of its distinguished founder members Tom Slater, just prior to the 40th anniversary celebrations, when Tom suddenly passed away while away on holiday in Kent, with his former working colleagues at Drakelow Power Station. Tom had been the club’s president for many of its forty years (Derek Hopper was president for a short spell) Tom took a special interest in timing & handicapping evening club events. He was always involved in the club’s promotions from recorder to marshalling. Tom held similar roles in his previous club the Rykneld Road Club, which helped to form in 1946. The Rykneld R.C. was a breakaway club from the Working Men’s C.C.
In 1966 the Rykneld R.C. (just short of its 21st anniversary) Swadlincote Wheelers & Overseal Cycling & Athletic Club decided to amalgamate, due to falling numbers, to form the Mercia C.C. Tom’s cycling career, other than touring was mainly on track racing, both concrete & grass, he would think nothing of riding to the Butt’s Stadium at Coventry racing & riding back again on his cycle.
As well as cycling Tom & his late wife Beryl were members of the Burton YHA group & spent many weekends on working parties at Dimmingsdale & Shining Cliff. Tom & Beryl also did a lot of work for the Girl Guides. They were also on the organising committee of the Caravan Club. Walking was another of his favourite past times. In recent times he organised a weekly holiday in Barmouth for mainly local retired persons including many ex cyclists. He was a well liked person who will be greatly missed. His funeral takes place at the Trinity Methodist’s Church, Guild Street, Burton at 11:15 am on Monday 9th October 2006.
Peter Rose, Press Secretary, 01283 536545.
Posted by on Wednesday, October 11, 2006
