David E. Portwood and Brian Tate
Sid Smith Restarts the Club
The last pre-war report in the Newbury Weekly News (NWN) regarding Newbury Road Club, was on the 11 January 1940, (see above). It was not until January 1947 that Christopher Luff and Sid Smith published a short advert in the NWN with the objective of restarting the club. Sid Smith was one of the founding members of the club in 1925, competing in the first-time trial in July of that year, and C. Luff had been club chairman pre-war.
It was not however, until April 24th that an announcement appeared in the NWN regarding the intention of holding a general meeting on April 27th, the agenda being to reform the club and elected officials. The annual meeting was once again held at the “George and Dragon Hotel” in Newbury.
The restart was initially very tentative. At the general meeting they agreed to restart club runs on a fortnightly basis, as they thought it was not possible to hold a full program. The first run of the year was held on Sunday 18th May to Dorchester with tea in Yattendon, once again starting from the marketplace at 9.30am.
Initially S.J. Smith was appointed as chairman with T. Perrins as runs secretary and club captain. G.H. Goodman was elected vice-captain and J. Thomas, Eddie Jones and F. Palmer appointed onto the committee.
The club would only be affiliated to the R.T.T.C. (Roads Time Trial Council) and the N.C.U. (National Cycling Union) but affiliation was to be delayed for a year. Racing, in 1947, would be limited to two 25-mile time trials, a scratch event and a second for the Burns handicap trophy.
A very short report of the opening club run in 1947 appeared in the NWN on May 29th. The run went to Dorchester via Pangbourne and Wallingford where they visited the ancient Abbey. The ride back was via Frilsham for tea where they met up with the afternoon run. Club runs were clearly starting to increase in popularity again and in July they rode to Bibury via Wantage and Fairford and after dinner cycled to a favourite pre-war tea stop in Stanford-in-the-Vale. Pre-war the reports of club runs, in the NWN, would be fairly detailed but post-war reports were slimmed down.
The first time trial of the season was reported in the NWN on 10th July. No mention was given of the course, but the race was won by Jack Thomas (1:08:48) from Fullwood (1:15:02) and John Drummond (1:17:15), there were only three competitors.
The Burns Handicap event was held mid-August with seven competitors at the start line. The fastest time was recorded by Jack Thomas in 1:05:09, followed by John Drummond and M. Watling, however, this particular event was decided on handicap and Drummond with an adjusted time of 1:01:05 was declared the winner of the trophy.
The first post-war dinner of the recently revived Newbury Road Club in 1947 was held at the Tudor Café at the end of November. The president, C.W. Burns, gave a resumé of early cycling days and presented the prizes.
After the tentative steps in 1947 the club accelerated in 1948 with reports appearing most weeks in the Newbury Weekly News.
Newbury Weekly News Advert from January 1948
Club Runs and Touring
Winter Runs 1948
The first run in January 1948 was to Silchester, not particularly long by pre-war standards, a short ride from Newbury, where they explored the Roman ruins and visited the amphitheatre, before continuing to Aldermaston where they met the afternoon members and discussed plans for tours for the spring and summer.
In January they also held a short Sunday ride to the west to explore Coombe Hill. The ride took them via Hurstbourne Tarrant and Faccombe taking the long climb to the ridge and following the route to Warbury Hill, the highest point on the Newbury Downs, and Coombe Gibbet. After taking a path to Linkenholt they had lunch in Vernham Dean and rode home via Great Bedwyn over the hills to Ramsbury before eventually meeting other club members in Chilton Foliat for tea.
In February the club runs started to explore further afield. Early in the month they had a ride north towards Wantage via Abingdon with a stop for lunch in Marcham, eventually reaching Wantage later in the afternoon. A strong headwind made the going tough but once they reached Lambourn, they met the afternoon run for tea. They arrived back in Newbury early evening after a ride of approximately 55 miles.
According to the report in the NWN, the winter policy was to confine runs to the “byways of the Berkshire-Wiltshire borders”, and so on Sunday 15th February the ride went to Avebury and the earthworks. Runs were also only held every two weeks through 1948. The route took them eastwards through Kintbury and Hungerford Common to avoid the Bath Road eventually arriving at Pewsey for lunch. The club continued their ride past the Woodborough White Horse and reached the Bath Road at West Kennet and a further short run to Avebury and the stone circles. The riders continued back via Beckhampton and Marlborough where they stopped for tea, meeting the afternoon run, before completing the ride back to Newbury.
The last run in February was on treacherous roads and the proposed run was curtailed with the riders just making it to the tea stop at Chilton Foliat before a “careful” ride home, aided by the light traffic.
Spring Runs 1948
Winter runs were over and the first run in the spring took them to the Test Valley by way of Hurstbourne Tarrant and Longparish, stopping to mend a puncture at Stockbridge, after which the run took them via Winchester where they had a wander round the Cathedral City. The offending tyre then gave up the ghost completely. As time was pressing the club split and the captain plus one other stayed with the puncture victim to make repairs. The riders arriving back in Newbury early evening after 60 miles of riding.
Once again, the weather put paid to the first ride of April. The severe wind and rain forced the proposed West Country run to be cancelled and instead they held an afternoon run to Marlborough for tea, with a return aided by the sunshine and wind.
Rides were starting to increase in length. April 18th, the run was to Burford, gateway to the Cotswolds. Leaving Newbury at 9.30am the club went via Snelsmore, Wantage, Faringdon and Lechlade, where they took lunch, before continuing the ride to Burford. After a long stop to enjoy the surroundings, they met the afternoon run in Stanford-in-the-Vale, where a large group had tea together. Newbury was eventually reached at 8.30pm after a round trip of 80 miles – the longest ride of the year to date.
One of the particularly interesting comments in the report of the Castle Coombe ride on May 30th was the number of members meeting for tea in Marlborough. The all day and afternoon rides had a total of twenty-two riders enjoying a social over tea! Numbers were growing.
Summer Runs 1948
Navigation was not a strength of some, especially in pre-GPS days, at the end of June there was a run to West Wycombe, where they split into two groups in order to visit the “Golden Ball” at West Wycombe and the Wycombe Caves. However, obviously some improvements in navigation were required as one group was unable to find the attractions!
The club runs were often a full day, filled with other excitement, not just cycling. In July when the run went to Frensham Ponds in Surrey members took the opportunity for a swim and others had an “impromptu scramble” in the sand, which created an interesting musical rendition when “hitting the bearings”.
Riding in the New Year 1949
The Road Club decided to revive the pre-war custom of riding in the New Year. Starting from the “Robin Hood”, London Road at 8.45pm the cyclists rode to Woolhampton for refreshments, at an all-night café, and afterwards rode into 1949 before the return to Newbury. A gale and rain did not deter members, riders donning waterproofs on their return leg and a short distance from home the New Year was announced by “whistles” from the railway.
Ladies’ Run 1949
April 3rd the club held a ladies’ only ride, heading out for Hungerford, the route went via Shalbourne, Burbage and Pewsey where they stopped for lunch. After lunch they continued to Upavon and Amesbury in steadily falling rain, reaching Thornton for tea, however, they had a following wind home after tea to make up for the poor weather.
Meriden Run 1949
Ten hardy and enthusiastic members of the club set out on Saturday 21st May for Bickenhill near Birmingham and the twenty-eighth anniversary memorial service at Meriden Green held at the Cyclists War Memorial, Meriden Green. The Road Club had been attending these services almost every year since they started in the 1920’s. The ride went north via Oxford and Stratford returning through Kenilworth and Warwick after a round trip of 176 miles. The riders taking part were, Eddie Jones, Wilf Fullwood, Vera Fullwood, Alf Ware, Mrs E. Ware, Dennis Harvey, Ron Smith, Bertha Bance, John Fish, Stan Partridge.
Club run Photographs, 1949, with thanks to Pete Frost (images © the owner)
Riding in the New Year 1950
With members of the Reading Club, Bon Amis C.C. and the Basingstoke C.C., the Road Club held a New Year’s Eve supper at the “Fox and Hounds” in Peasemore. New year was welcomed on the way back to Newbury with riders dismounting and singing “Auld Lang Syne”. There was also a football match reported against the Bon Amis C.C., presumably on New Years Day, which was won by Newbury, 4-3.
In 1952 the football match between the two cycle clubs resulted in a reversal of honours with Bon Amis C.C. the victors, 3-2.
Social Run to the South Coast
Reports of club runs were sparse in the Newbury Weekly News in 1950. At the end of March, there was a report a group held a ride to the south coast and the afternoon section spent time touring the area north of the Bath Road.
Easter Weekend 1950
The Easter weekend of 1950 was busy for the club, members decided to leave the bikes at home and venture to Herne Hill for the “Good Friday Track Meeting”, where the great Reg Harris and other international riders were in attendance. Easter Saturday a party of riders visited Hayling Island on the south coast and had a rough ride both ways. Easter Monday saw members out at the Charlotteville 50 mile time trial, and a team of three rode the Actonia open 25 time trial on Monday. Tough conditions meant the times were a little slow, with Harold Barlow being the quickest in 1:11:18.
Meriden Ride 1950
The last Saturday of May and 20 members of the Road Club set off on the annual pilgrimage to the Memorial Service for fallen cyclists at Meriden in Warwickshire. It was a wet Saturday morning when they set off, but the rain cleared when the run passed through Stratford-in-Avon, which enabled them to visit the Memorial Theatre and gardens.
Club Meriden Ride 1950 (images © the owner)
All-Night Ride to Arundel
The weekend of 24th June 1950 saw the club revive its tradition of riding through the night with a ride to Arundel with fifteen members, including five ladies taking part. In spite of continuous rain good progress was made via Winchester and Arundel was reached at 6am. The return journey was in fine weather, and tea was taken at Four Marks, before eventually arriving home after 150 miles.
National Cycling Union Rally, Leamington Spa
The first weekend in June the club members attended the N.C.U. national rally in Leamington Spa. The event was attended by 3000 cyclists from across the British Isles. After breakfast there was a full day of events including a massed ride of cyclists through the streets. Overnight accommodation was provided for the Saturday night in marquees. The Newbury cyclists had an easy return journey on Sunday.
Later in July the Road Club attended the annual rally of the Berks, Oxon and Bucks Centre of the N.C.U., although rain threatened the Sunday was dry. Centre medals were presented to the track champions, and the Road Clubs tug-o-war team reached the final in which they were beaten by the heavier Slough C. & A.C. team.
Winter Runs 1950
The first of the winter 1950 social runs took place on 15th October. The ride took them to Bagshot travelling via Basingstoke, Blackwater and Camberley, visiting the Surrey woods and commons. The afternoon ride went via Ascot and Hawthorne Hill, Jealotts Hill and Wokingham to Loddon for tea.
At the end of October 1950, they held the first of a series of social runs to be led by different club members, (presumably not led by the club captain?). Peter Clarke led one of these, a ride to Castle Combe, a few miles from Bath. After lunch the ride went via Bradford-on-Avon, Melksham and Devises to Marlborough for tea. The autumn evenings were closing in, so it was a moonlight ride back to Newbury and 106 miles of riding.
At the end of November, it was the turn of S. Partridge to lead the ride, with twelve hardy cyclists in cold and misty conditions.
Mid-December, the scheduled club run was postponed due to heavy snowstorms. However, an impromptu local ride was scheduled instead around the local villages of Shefford, Chaddleworth, Leckhampstead, Stanmore, Lilley and Peasemore. All within easy reach of the tea stop in Peasemore. A total of 16 riders turning up in spite of the tough conditions.
Winter Runs 1951
Bagshot Scramble
The first reference to the club attending the Bagshot Scramble (cyclo-cross) was a club run in January 1951. Seventeen riders enjoyed a run via Brimpton, Aldermaston, Arborfield, and Eversley to Bagshot for lunch. In the afternoon the group watched the “Bagshot Scramble” over 12 hilly miles with a mass field of some 71 riders.
Not every club run had reports in the NWN, but the most interesting comment in the report of the run to Steventon in February, reiterated that runs were now happening every weekend, so presumably numbers were sufficient to support them. This run was to explore the Wittenham Clumps, Oxfordshire. After lunch at Pynton, riders took a route to Little Milton and Cuddesdon where the road was flooded to the height of the bottom bracket! Tea was taken in Steventon where they met the afternoon section after which they had a tough ride back home, reaching Newbury in the evening.
At the end of February, the Sunday club run featured an impromptu 10 mile training time trial. Riders were restricted to gears ranging from 69 inches to 79 inches, with most around 72 inches similar to the middle markers race that would take place the following week. H. Atkins was the fastest rider recording 27min 15s. After the event they held the usual club rides with the fast group riding via Wantage, Whitehorse Hill and Ashbury to Avebury, whereas the other section went via Hungerford and Ramsbury to Avebury.
Spring Runs, 1951
Tour of the Mendips
The end of March 1951 the Road Club had a tour of the Mendips, there was no comment who was riding, but often these spring weekends away were used by racing members to fine tune their form for the upcoming season. The cyclists left Newbury on Saturday morning, reaching Bath after 56 miles of tough riding against a westerly wind. On Sunday they visited Cheddar Gorge and Wookey Hole and then spent the night in Wells. The return leg was made with the help of a following wind, although a heavy shower made the going uncomfortable.
Mid-May 1951 the club had a run to Burford and Bibury with a tea stop at Stanford-in-the-Vale. The return via Wantage and Shefford was wind assisted and Newbury was reached in the early evening.
Weekend Run to Meriden
The weekend of 20th May 1951 the club once again held their annual pilgrimage to Meriden to attend the thirtieth annual cyclist’s memorial service. The club stayed at Bickenhill and the following morning several riders rode the Midland C. & A.C. Open 50 mile time trial on the Stonebridge course.
Sunday Run to the Cotswolds
The weekly club run went the long way round to the Cotswolds the first weekend of June 1951. The route went via Theale, Pangbourne and along the Thames to Oxford. The group had lunch in Enstone, north of Woodstock, the ride continuing to Chipping Norton, Stow-on-the-Wold and Burford with tea at Stanford-in-the-Vale, finally returning home via Wantage and Shefford.
Interest in All-night Runs Waning?
All night runs had been one of the bed rocks of the club touring scene, so it was interesting to note in July 1951 that the all-night ride to Glastonbury was only supported by three riders. However, in the same report in the Newbury Weekly News the Newbury C.T.C. rides for June were reasonably well supported “considering the section was a new one”. What is interesting here is that the local C.T.C. group had previously been popular, indeed was intrinsically linked with the formation of Newbury Road Club.
Meriden Service – May 1954
Once again Newbury riders went to Meriden the weekend of 22nd May for the cyclist’s memorial service for cyclists on Meriden Green. The event was attended by thousands of cyclists from across England.
We also find members combining the trip with three cyclists riding the Kenilworth Castle Wh. “25”. Arthur Frost, Jim Bailey and Dave Jones recorded 1:5:38, 1:6:47 and 1:9:27 respectively, before the service.
Jim Bailey, Arthur Frost and John Vockins, 16th May 1954, outside “Mrs Keenes”, Stanford-in-the-Vale, after a club run via Reading – Henley – Marlow – Stokenchurch – Oxford – Witney – Burford – Lechlade – Faringdon – Stanford – Wantage – Total 130 miles (Image © the owner)
Winter Run 1958
Collingbourne Ducis – 26th Jan 1958
Five members of the Road Club left the marketplace on Sunday afternoon for tea at Collingbourne Ducis riding via Inkpen and Shalbourne. Apparently, it was an enjoyable run despite the wet weather and three punctures. – Whilst racing was extensively reported in the NWN, club run reports were now very short and lacking any real detail!
Seven members of the Club had a run to the Devil’s Punch Bowl at Hindhead on Sunday 2nd Feb 1958. In the picturesque village of Selbourne, they visited the Norman Church which has a 1300 year old yew tree in the churchyard. Sixteen members, including three ladies, took tea in Overton and the club returned along the road to Winchester from Whitchurch to Newbury.
Day Run to Hayling Island – May 1958
Several members had a day run to Hayling Island, via Alton, Selbourne and Petersfield. After crossing to Portsmouth on the ferry, the club went to Winchester for tea, where they were joined by the afternoon section and the whole group returned to Newbury through Micheldever, Overton and Kingsclere.
Run to Andover July 1958
After marshalling at the National 100, several riders went on a day run to Andover and Romsey and on to Winchester for tea, where they were joined by the afternoon section; the club returned via Mitcheldever, Overton and Kingsclere.
Club Run to Wantage – October 1958
Sunday 12th October, the club had a ride to Wantage via Snelsmore Common. Seven members took the road to Didcot, Long Witttenham and Wittenham Clump, Wallingford, Streatley and Pangbourne reaching Reading for dinner. After dinner the cyclists attended a meeting at Palmer Park Track and then rode to Stratfield Turgis for tea, where they met the afternoon section, returning to Newbury via Bramley, Tadley and Brimpton.
Club Run to Bognor Regis – June 1959
Road Club members had a brief pause from racing and five of them rode to Bognor Regis, covering a hilly 124 miles. The day section joined the afternoon section for tea at Stratfield Turgis and the club returned home via Tadley, Brimpton and Thatcham.
Club Runs in full Swing – November 1959
The winter runs return, and November 8th the club went to Burnham Beeches, travelling via Pangbourne, Henley and Marlow, returning via Slough, Maidenhead and Bracknell with tea in Riseley.
The following week a last minute change of plan and the club run went to Wiltshire on a cold and gloomy day. The run took them to the ruins of Old Sarum outside Salisbury and tea was taken in Hungerford.
The next week the ride went to Chedworth, Gloucester, via Lambourn and Shrivenham, the ride was beset with misfortunes. Two punctures and a broken gear caused delays and when one rider smashed his front wheel negotiating a wheel rut, it was too late to get a replacement. After tea in Northleach, there was a 50 mile ride in the dusk via Witney and Wantage before eventually getting back home.
Early December six riders braved the rain for a ride to Alresford, via Basingstoke and the Candovers. With improving weather tea was taken in Overton after a ride through the Test Valley.
The last day run of the year took four intrepid riders to Tilshead on the Salisbury Plain, riding into a strong headwind. With worsening weather on the return, they rode through Amesbury and Tidworth reaching Newbury at dusk.
Photo from Jeff Garner (Image © the owner)
Hard Riders Events
The 1948 event followed in the theme of the Hard Riders event the club ran pre-war but followed a different route. The challenge for riders was to compete 100 miles within eight hours. The start was from Dower House, London Road, proceeding to Marlborough and back (30 miles), then through Pangbourne and Dorchester to Oxford, where they turned short (65 miles) and returned to Newbury which was reached after 7 hours 25 minutes. There were 12 starters and 10 finished.
In September 1949 the event had nine riders who started at three-minute intervals, this time labelled as a “Tourist Trial”, with no riders completing the course successfully.
In August 1950 the Road Club annual Hard Riders’ Tourist Trial was held over a 200 mile course to be completed in 24 hours instead of the 100 in 8 as in previous years, really ramping up the challenge. The course was held over the downs around Berkshire, Wiltshire and Hampshire. The ride started at 6pm on Saturday evening in heavy drizzle with a 35 mile stretch in the evening, before a compulsory break for one hour. Then the night stretch of 75 miles was ridden before a breakfast stop of at least one hour. A further ride of 54 miles took riders to lunch before the final 36 miles and the finale.
There were twelve entries of which eleven started and eight finished. J. Harding retired at 35 miles, Lionel Thirkill at 110 miles and Jim Bailey at 164 miles. The successful riders were Harry Atkins, Doug Lawrence, Dennis Harvey, Stan Partridge, Arthur Frost, Cyril Sherman, Peter Clark and Keith Bennett. The event was organised by Wilf Fullwood assisted by Eddie Jones and Keith Bennett.
Time Trial and Race Reports
Time Trial Results 1948
The first post-war year with a full program of time trials was 1948. Predominantly 25 and 50 mile events with 10 miles for novice and ladies.
Date | Distance | First | Second | Third |
14th March 1 | 25 miles | J. Thomas (1:17:25) | T. Holden (1:17:27) | J. Drummond (1:21:15) |
25th April | 10 miles (novices) | J. Radbourn (29:28) | P. Bosley (29:43) | P. Drummond (30:03) |
25th April | 25 miles | E. Holden (1:12:21) | J. Thomas (1:12:41) | J. Drummond (1:15:29) |
| Handicap | E. Holden (2:00) | J. Drummond (4:00) | F. Robertson (6:15) |
18th May | 25 miles | J. Thomas (1:08:40) | J. Drummond (1:14:50) | F. Robertson (1:15:03) |
9th June 2 | 30 miles | J. Drummond (1:28:52) | R. Graham (1:33:42) | J. Radbourn (1:35:30) |
21st July 3 | 25 miles | J. Radbourne (1:14:31) | W. Fullwood (1:15:31) | R. Graham (1:15:32) |
| Handicap | J. Radbourne (5:15) | W. Fullwood (5:30) | R. Graham (5:00) |
11th August | 25 miles | J. Drummond (1:10:10) | R. Graham (1:10:18) | D. Jones (1:14:45) |
25th August 4 | 10 miles | B. Bance (30:03) | V. Fullwood (32:20) | A. Robertson (32:52) |
19th September 5 | 50 miles | W. Fullwood (2:36:58) | E. Jones (1:14:50) |
|
26th September 6 | 25 miles | J. Thomas (1:09:10) | J. Drummond (1:10:24) | W. Fullwood (1:13:24 |
1. Medium Gear (72inch)
2. Ball Richards 30 Trophy
3. Burns Handicap
4. Ladies 10 Mile Time Trial – Pirouet Cup
5. Starkey Challenge – two riders!
6. Championship 25
Medium Gear 25 Mile Time Trial
The club’s first event of the year was a medium gear time trial to encourage riders to “loosen up” for events later in the season “by forcing them to pedal in a very nimble fashion”. The course was held on the road between Wickham and Baydon and rising to 350 ft over the Downs, riders were accompanied with a very stiff breeze, hence the times were perhaps a little slower than they expected. A couple of riders also failed to complete the course which was put down to poor early season fitness.
Handicap 25- and Novices 10 mile Time Trial
The second club event of the 1948 season for the racing cyclists was a handicap 25-mile time trial and a 10-mile time trial was also held for novice riders. Strong crosswinds hindered the riders but nonetheless the event was well supported with fourteen riders recording times. The timekeeper for both events was Sid Smith.
Ladies 10 Mile Time Trial
Wednesday 25th August the club held a 10-mile time trial for the ladies competing for the Pirouet Cup, the Ladies Championship “10”. Bertha Bance recorded a time of 30 minutes 3 seconds, setting a new club record. There were five competitors.
Pirouet Cup presented by Mr. K.E. Pirouet
West London CA Races, (incl. 12Hr Time Trial)
Members of the Road Club have supported the West London Cycling Association (WLCA) for a great many years, until its dissolution, often held on local roads and hence courses familiar to club riders. In 1948 Wilf Fullwood recorded a distance of 182 miles at the 12 hours event run by the WLCA, short of the pre-war record held by George Wickens of 214 miles set in 1934. Fullwood was competing in his first 12 hour race and had two punctures early on but continued only to puncture a third time! Club members marshalled points in Faringdon and Lechlade.
Drummond, Fullwood and Graham also competed in the WLCA 25 mile time trial on 2nd October recording times of 1:12:11, 1:12:26 and 1:13:53 respectively.
The Starkey 50 miles time trial was held in conjunction with the WLCA 50 mile scratch and handicap time trial on 19th September. Whist only Wilf Fullwood and Eddie Jones were competing, nonetheless it was a thrilling tussle which resulted in them only being separated by 42 seconds at the finish, with Fullwood claiming the honours and winning the trophy, however Eddie Jones, in receipt of a two minute handicap received the fastest handicap prize. Non-racing members of the club supported the event by marshalling in Abingdon where they covered two points.
The WLCA 25 mile time trial held on October 3rd would have been well supported with six riders, however, due to a course change from Theale to Farnham, only three riders were able to make the start line. Peter Drummond was the quickest Road Club rider recording a time of 1hr 12 min 11s, and with a 12 minute handicap won the fastest handicap prize, an excellent result.
Records Broken
A report in the NWN 16th September described how Newbury rider Jack Thomas lowered the club record for the 25 mile time trial, with a time of 1 hour 3 mins 10 seconds, the previous time had been set by A. Payne had stood for ten years, by 11 seconds.
Championship 25 Mile Time Trial
The final racing event of the year was the Championship 25 held on September 26th. Perhaps unsurprisingly the event was won by the new club record holder Jack Thomas but pushed by newcomer Peter Drummond only 1 minute 14 seconds behind.
Time Trial Results 1949
The year 1949 was significant for the club, because this was when Dave Jones started to make a significant impact on the racing scene as can be seen in a summary of the results for the year. His first race had been in 1948 when he just scraped inside “evens” (20 mph) for a 25 mile time trial. Dave would continue to time trial into his golden years with his last race in Road Club colours in 2012.
Date | Distance | First | Second | Third |
6th March 1 | 25 miles |
| Postponed due to weather |
|
27th March 1 | 25 miles | R. Barratt (1:14:08) | D. Harvey (1:17:40) | D. Jones (1:18:32) |
10th April 2 | 25 miles | R. Barratt (1:09:56) | S. Partridge (1:11:57) | D. Jones (1:12:30) |
| Handicap | S. Partridge (4:00) | R. Barratt (scr) | D. Jones (2:00) |
8th May 3 | 25 miles | R. Barratt (1:10:30) | D. Jones (1:12:25) | R. Graham 1:14:08 |
25th May | 25 miles | D. Jones (1:09:31) | R. Graham (1:11:14) | E. Jones (1:11:25) |
5th June 4 | 30 miles | D. Jones (1:23:17) | R. Graham (1:25:23) | D. Harvey (1:25:28) |
29th June | 25 miles | D. Jones (1:08:01) | R. Barratt (1:09:18) | E. Jones (1:10:16) |
13th July | 25 miles | D. Jones (1:09:31) | R. Graham (1:11:14) | E. Jones (1:11:25) |
17th July 5 | 25 miles | R. Graham (1:10:39) | J. Bailey (1:13:51) | D. Harvey (1:13:51 |
14th August 6 | 25 miles | D. Jones (1:09:09) | R. Graham (1:12:25) | D. Harvey (1:12:31) |
| Handicap | D. Harvey (3:30) | D. Jones (scr) | J. Bailey (3:45) |
31st August 7 | 10 miles | B. Bance (28:47) | V. Fullwood (30:18) | C. Holloway (31:42) |
11th September 8 | 50 miles | R. Barratt (2:26:41) | D. Jones (2:29:07) | W. Fullwood (2:31:09) |
25th September 9 | 25 miles | D. Jones (1:6:56) | R. Barratt (1:07:53) | R, Graham (1:10:50) |
25th December 10 | 25 miles | R. Graham (1:14:30) | D. Jones (1:15:19) | P. Clark (1:16:38) |
1. Medium Gear (72inch) (10 riders)
2. Smith Shield Handicap 25
3. Hungerford 25 course
4. Ball Richards 30
5. Junior 25 mile time trial
6. Burns Handicap Shield
7. Pirouet Ladies 10
8. Starkey Challenge 50
9. Championship 25 (course 1000 yards short; times adjusted)
10. Low gear (63 inches)
Dave Jones won his first championship, in his extremely long and illustrious time with the club, when he won the Ball-Richards 30-mile trophy, prior to which he also won his first club race over 25-miles. Both events were on the Bath Road to the east of Newbury. The 30-mile race, first evening race of the season, Ray Barrett, who had been shaping up well over the 25 mile distance, had an attack of cramp which put him out of contention enabling Jones to take advantage of the situation and win. The 30 title was not the only championship for Jones in ’49 as he also took the 25 mile championship and was second on the Burns handicap and the Starkey Challenge 50. For good measure he also won the hill climb championship as well – an impressive first full year of racing.
Dave Jones, Club Champion with his trophies! 1949 (Photo supplied by Philip Jones) (Image © the owner)
Bank Holiday Sports at Newbury Football Ground
On Whit-Monday Newbury Road Club riders took part in the races at the Boy’s Club grass track meeting which was held to stimulate interest in the newly formed Newbury Athletic Club. The cycle track racing was organised by Newbury Road Club; there were three events, and the first two places were taken by members of the Reading Bon Amiss C.C. leaving little for the local riders. However, local riders R. Graham was third in the 880 yds race and Dave Jones third in the race held over three miles.
Later in September the club held a “new event”, a grass track championship to encourage interest in an alternative form of racing, with J. Fish winning and N. Rivers in second place.
Newbury Junior 25 Mile Time Trial
The Road Club were showing its strengths in the junior ranks and as a result held a 25 mile time trial specifically for the younger contingent on the Newbury to Calcot course in July 1949 with the winner being Bob Graham in 1:10:39. A total of six riders took part in the event with the slowest being 1:15:32.
Burns Handicap 25 Mile Time Trial
The race for the most coveted trophy in the club’s trophy cabinet was the Burns Handicap cup, run in the presence of the president, C.W. Burns over the Newbury to Hungerford course. A total of 15 riders took part, the largest field in any club event during the season so far. Dave Jones, off scratch, was only eight seconds off beating the best handicap time, came second on handicap, but was unable to beat Dennis Harvey who put up his ride of the season with an actual time of 1:12:31 which with a 3 min 45s handicap gave him to win the trophy.
Dennis Harvey recorded an actual time of 1 hour 12 mins 31s (Image © the owner)
Time Trial Results 1950
First Junior 10 Mile Time Trial
The first race of the year in 1950 was the Junior 10 mile time trial, the event counting for, what appeared to be a new season long championship held, of 10, 25 and 30 miles. The winner of the 10 mile event was Bob Graham (28m 14s), with Jim Bailey second (28m 34s) and L. Thirkill third (28m 50s).
Smith Handicap 25 Mile Time Trial
The Smith handicap prize was won by a new member in 1950. Sid Smith had presented the trophy to the club a number of years earlier. Harry Atkins rode away from the field having started as first man off and rode away from the twenty riders. He recorded a time of 1:10:6 and won the handicap prize by 3mins, as well as recording the fastest overall time.
Harry Atkins racing through the Broadway – possibly attacking a place-to-place record. (Photo with thanks to Karina Atkins, Image © the owner)
Second Junior 10 Mile Time Trial
The keenly contested season long junior time trial competition was a close run thing. After the second 10 mile time trial Jim Bailey led Bob Graham by 1min closely followed by Lionel Thirkill.
West London 25 mile time trial
Early May 1950 the club had five entries in the WLCA “25” on a course near Farnham. They were unable to find accommodation near the course, so rode the twenty miles, leaving at 4.30 in the morning! Ted Holden was the quickest club rider, recording 1:8:59, with Harold Barlow, 1:9:16, Dave Jones, 1:11:44 and Wilf Fullwood 1:14:34 – having had his brake fall off when dropping down a long hill! The fifth entry, E. Jones, was a non-starter.
“Jubilee” 50 mile time trial
In order to mark the clubs 25th anniversary, a jubilee 50 mile time trial was held. The riders competed for an “unusual” trophy, an early saddle taken from an 1885 Rover Safety, donated by an unknown individual through Harold Barlow. A hilly course was used around Basingstoke in heavy rain. All but three riders had given up by the turn, with, appropriately, the quickest being H. Barlow in 2:35:35.
The Jubilee “50”, the Barlow Saddle Trophy, was awarded to the best club rider in a 50 mile time trial, initially one promoted by the club, but later the ‘Bath Road Club’ Hilly 50 mile Time Trial. This was over a specific course in the area but run by the Bath Road Club from West London. Changes to the road layouts meant that the original 50 mile course was lost, and the Bath Road Club created a new 50k course based on 2 laps of the Bucklebury Hilly 17 course. A lack of riders meant that this event was eventually abandoned.
In a report in 1957 saddle was described as from a Rudge ordinary (penny farthing) cycle, on an oak base and chrome fittings.
The Barlow Trophy was later repurposed for a “closest to 50” competition introduced a few years ago as a middle markers event for those riders that are not normally fast enough to win the championship event.
Grass and Hard Track Meeting
Once again club riders took to the track at Palmer Park in Reading over the Whitsun weekend at the Reading Wheelers event. Newbury had five entries, all doing well, with Harold Barlow and Harry Atkins winning their half-mile heats and Ken Atkins reaching the final as a fastest loser. H. Atkins placed third in the final. This was the first placing of a club rider at Palmer Park since the pre-war days of Tom Froude.
Newbury Boy’s Club held an athletic sports meeting on the Newbury Town football ground which had an attendance of some 2,000 on Whit- Monday. The program included grass track cycle races with all three events won by J.R. Gates of Maidenhead C. and A.C., but with Harry Atkins and his brother Ken of the Road Club third in the mile race and the “devil-take-the-hindmost” race respectively.
Harry Atkins and others in action in a grass track meeting. (Photo with thanks Karina Atkins, Image © the owner)
Two weeks later, in June, the club was again at Palmer Park, competing at an event held in conjunction with the Reading Festival of Sport. Harry Atkins won his heat in the pursuit but was unplaced in the final. R. Graham reached the final of the 1000yds Sprint Championship, but unfortunately Dave Jones fell heavily whilst leading the bunch in the “5” and broke his collar bone!
Mid-July the club competed in the Bon Amis C.C. meeting at Palmer Park with the Newbury team taking part in the “Halsan” pursuit event. The club team beat Farnborough C.C. in the first round and Bon Amis C.C. easily in the semi-final, however upon meeting the Camberley Wheelers in the final they were beaten by 0.2s!
The following Saturday the club raced at the “Gazette Trophy” meeting where they once again came up against the Bon Amis C.C., but this time it was the Reading club which came out on top, the Road Club losing by 200 yards as the team fell apart.
Towards the end of August, the Road Club took part in the Didcot C.O.D. Sports. The half mile was won by Harry Atkins, but he unfortunately dropped his chain in the mile final when winning his heat easily.
The final weekend of August 1950, the club held a one-mile track championship at Palmer Park, as part of the Bon Amis C.C. meeting which was won by Harry Atkins by one length from Doug Lawrence with Dave Jones in third.
At the annual meeting of the Berks, Oxon and Bucks centre of the N.C.U. Wilf Fullwood was elected a senior track judge for open track meetings, a position not previously held by a club member.
And so ended a busy year on the track for the Road Club.
Great Show in Slough C. &A.C. 50 Mile Time Trial
This event was open to riders who had not beaten 1:7:0 for 25 miles or 2:20:00 for 50 miles. Doug Lawrence riding his first 50, and only his third race, clocked a great time of 2:14:50 to win the second fastest prize, being beaten by 29s and only 20s outside the club record. A feat completed on ordinary touring wheels and a single fixed gear of 79 inches.
West London C.A. 100 Mile Time Trial
One hundred and fifty riders from eighty clubs took part in the WLCA 100 at the start of June. Conditions varied from a cold misty 5am start to mid-day heat and an easterly breeze facing riders on the last 20 mile leg. Harold Barlow riding his first race at the distance clocked 4:53:11 to lower the club record by almost 3 minutes. The previous record was held by Sid Payne which had stood since 1938. Tom Willis clocked a time of 5:6:45 and Wilf Fullwood, the elder statesmen recorded a time of 5hr 30mins exactly, a long way from his pre-war best, although finding the last 20 miles particularly hard having to lift his machine over a broken down lorry on the course.
Club 25 Mile Time Trial – First Ride by Arthur Frost
Together with Dave Jones, Arthur Frost was a club member for many decades competing actively over a range of distances. His ride in July 1950 was his first club event and coming in third place was a huge achievement, boding well for the future.
Arthur Frost starts the Actonia “25” in 1959(Image © the owner)
Inter-Club 25 Mile Series
Mid-September 1950 the Road Club participated in the first of a series of inter-club 25 mile time trials between six local clubs, near Oxford. The clubs were the Oxonian, Reading Wheelers, Swindon Wheelers, Banbury Star, Aylesbury and Newbury, with the entry from the Road Club of 17 members. This would often go by the acronym of R.O.S.B.A.N. in news reports in the future.
The Newbury riders failed to shine, but Peter Clark and Cyril Sherman did win first and second handicap respectively, and together with A. Frost and C. Hunt came a close runner-up in the team competition. The conditions had proven difficult with a gale to the turn and then a ride back at 10-15 mph.
Starkey Trophy 50 Mile Time Trial
The annual competition for the Starkey 50 Trophy was held at the end of September 1950 and it was reported that the improvement seen in club rides this year was reflected in the fact that none of the previous year’s top three were in with a shout. The winning time of Doug Lawrence, 2:18:29 having been only beaten once in the previous 24 years the competition had been held.
Championship 25 Mile Time Trial & Ladies Pirouet Cup
Two championship events were held on the course to the west of Newbury, with the men racing for the 25 Championship and the ladies racing for the Pirouet Cup. The Championship was won by Harry Atkins, and the Pirouet Cup was won by Pat Moroney. Councillor F.P. Pirouet was present to see the ladies race for his cup. The timekeeper was Eddie Jones.
Eddie Jones in Action.(Photo courtesy of Carol Brindley, Image © the owner)
Time Trial Results 1951
He Finished on Wife’s Machine!
For a season starter, the Road Club held a hilly 48 mile time trial in March 1951. The course included Ermine Street, Liddington Hill, the valley road past White Horse Hill and the hills out of Wantage. It may seem strange to us today, but most riders opted for freewheels and multiple gears rather than their usual fixed wheels. Wilf Fullwood had a mechanical incident when his back wheel collapsed and finished on his wife’s bicycle in 2:54:38. The hills, however, were not to the liking of star rider Harry Atkins or fifty mile star Doug Lawrence. The timekeeper was Eddie Jones again.
Busy Weekend for Newbury Road Club Riders
April fools’ day 1951 was a busy one, but Road Club riders were no fools. Arthur Frost, Doug Lawrence and Dave Jones represented the club in the Banbury Star C.C. Open 25 mile time trial on a course near Banbury and Harold Barlow, Peter Clark and Harry Atkins represented the club in an inter-club event, with the Bath Road Club, which was won by the Bath Roaders. This was the second 25-mile event in a series and leaving the clubs all square with a 100 decider later in the season; that event would be promoted by the Newbury Club.
Team in Bath Road Club Hilly “50”
Road Club members were out in force to help the Bath club with their hilly time trial, marshalling at various points on the Berkshire Downs and at feeding points for the riders. A team of local riders were accepted into the event, but with international riders also competing they had limited aspirations. Harold Barlow recorded 2:32:25, Cyril Sherman, 2:34:40, however, unfortunately Doug Lawrence who had been fastest at earlier checks crashed when blinded by the sun near the finish.
“Jubilee” Trophy 50 Mile Time Trial
The Jubilee 50 course in 1951 was based on a tough course around Brimpton, Aldermaston, Basingstoke and Kingsclere. The previous year’s winner, Harold Barlow was beaten into fifth place in spite of improving his time. The winner of the trophy was Arthur Frost (2h 31m 8s) followed by Cyril Sherman (2h 31m48s) and Doug Lawrence (2h 31m 58s).
First Ladies 25 Mile Time Trial
Possibly the first record of lady members riding a 25 mile time trial was when three ladies’ road private trials at the start of May 1951. Pat Moroney, June Northover and Daphne Jones recorded times of 1h 12m 39s, 1h 15m 48s and 1h 15m 3s respectively in preparation for a ride representing the club at the Hounslow Wheelers Open Ladies “25” over the Whitsun weekend.
Busy Whitsun Weekend on the Track
Newbury riders were busy riding at Palmer Park in the Reading Wheelers event and then at the Oxford Festival of Sport. At Palmer Park, the team including 15 year old June Northover who in her first attempt at track racing finished second in the 550 yards Festival of Britain Sprint Championship. On Monday afternoon a track team rode a 2 mile team pursuit and although beating the Swindon Wheelers C.C. in the first round they were narrowly beaten by Oxonian C.C. in the final, the team included Bob Graham, Harry Atkins, Dave Jones and Doug Lawrence. Lawrence was also third in the visitor’s sprint.
June Northover, Photo curtsy Newbury Weekly News, 17th May 1951, (Image © the owner)
The one-mile track championship for the club was held at Palmer Park at the end of August 1951, with Cyril Sherman winning from Doug Lawrence and Bob Graham.
100 Mile Mass Start Race
The first report in the NWN of Road Club riders taking part in a massed start road race was on 17th June 1951. Three members took part in a 100 mile race at Oxford Airport, Kidlington. In the first of the 38 laps Doug Lawrence shipped his chain which effectively meant his race was over. Cyril Sherman crashed after completing seven laps and retired from the race which left Arthur Frost, who found the pace too hot and after covering 32 miles retired. An inauspicious start for the club’s first foray into mass start racing.
New 100 Mile Club Record
Arthur Frost had clearly been showing his strength over the longer time trial distances, so perhaps it came as no surprise when in the WLCA 100 mile time trial on 1st July 1951 he broke the club record with a time of 4h 52m 22s, knocking 15 minutes off the previous club record, finishing well up the field in 150 entries.
Later in September, Doug Lawrence also broke the club 100 mile record, in the first 100 mile time trial promoted by the club since the war. Lawrence recorded 4:48:20 with a runaway win over Frost who recorded 5:1:40, with Dave Jones in third with 5:5:3 recorded in his first attempt at the distance.
New 50 Mile Club Record
Brothers Harry and Ken Atkins lowered the club tandem record with a time of 2:4:35 in the Archer Road Club tandem event. Interestingly, the club had three pairs of riders competing.
The Burns Handicap 25 Mile Time Trial
The handicap 25 mile time trial was always a popular event, and in 1951 it was once again very popular amongst the racing fraternity when 16 riders made their way to the timekeeper. Whilst decided on handicap the fastest ride was Arthur Frost, who was having a storming year, recording 1:7:50 from Doug Lawrence and Harry Atkins with Dave Jones in fourth. John Harding was first handicap with an adjusted time of 1:5:27 and Frost was second on handicap with 1:7:5.
Bicycle-Polo Contest
In connection with the Reading Festival of Britain celebrations in 1951, the Newbury and Reading Wheelers took part in a bicycle polo contest. Reading won by four goals to one – the Newbury goal scored by Doug Lawrence. The Newbury team consisting of Dennis Harvey, Eddie Jones, Doug Lawrence, Gerald Lawrence and Keith Bennett.
In 1952 the cycle-polo match against Reading Wheelers saw the Road Club defeated by 9-4 and thus the Wheelers retained the trophy for another year – although this was probably never contested for. The Newbury goals were scored by Dennis Harvey and Eddie Jones.
Newbury Road Club Bicycle Polo TeamPhoto courtesy Dennis Harvey (Image © the owner)
Interclub Time Trial Races
The second of the season inter-club meeting, 25 mile time trial event, took place on 26th August 1951, including local riders from Banbury, Oxford, Aylesbury, Swindon and Reading – as well as Newbury, again the R.O.S.B.A.N. group of clubs. The quickest Newbury riders Doug Lawrence, Arthur Frost and Peter Clark had aggregate time of 3:22:10 which was not quite good enough to win the fastest team prize.
“Festival” 50 Mile Trophy
In September 1951 the Road Club held the 50-mile time trial championship and the “Guildhall Festival 50” Handicap. The championship was won by Doug Lawrence from Arthur Frost and Dave Jones recorded times of 2:16:2, 2:19:27 and 2:20:2 respectively. The second event was based on handicap for the trophy originally presented to the Guildhall Cycling Club in 1891 by the Earl Carnarvon and previously won in 1894 by the president of Newbury Road Club, Alderman C.W. Burns. This particular event was named the “Guildhall Festival 50” handicap. The first winner of this trophy in 1951 was Dave Jones with a handicap time of 2:15:2.
“Festival” 50-Mile Trophy (image © the owner)
Lawrence Wins Third Title
It was cold and damp when riders lined up for the club’s 25 mile championship at the end of October 1951. Using the Hungerford course, thirteen riders started, with Doug Lawrence and Arthur Frost in a battle over major club honours with the former gaining the advantage by 35s in the end recording a time of 1:5:17. Lawrence won the 25, 50 and 100 mile titles in 1951.
At the same time the ladies were racing for the Pirouet cup over 10 miles, which was won by Daphne Jones in 29m 19s from June Northover and Pat Moroney.
Christmas Morning Time Trial
The last race of the year in 1951 was the “annual” Christmas morning 25 mile time trial, today the club would hold a Boxing Day 10 mile time trial. This year gears were restricted to 63 inches, but this did nothing to stop Arthur Frost recording a highly commendable 1:10:47, beating last year’s winner Dave Jones by over two minutes.
Opening Time Trial of 1952
In the early days of the club 10 mile time trials were rarely ridden by the senior men, being mostly contested by the juniors and ladies, so it was interesting to note that the 10 mile time trial on February 17th, 1952, was the event in the calendar labelled an “official” event of the racing season. Twelve competitors took part in the time trial on the road to Hungerford, but times were slower than the previous season. The winning time was recorded by Harry Atkins in 27:05, having encountered problems on his return leg with a “slipped cotter-pin”. Doug Lawrence was second in 27:35.
25 mile time trial – March 1952
Harry Atkins clearly had good early season form which he carried over to the 25 mile time trial a week later. The medium (restricted) gear event on the Hungerford to Froxfield course was won by Atkins in 1:7:40 with Doug Lawrence two minutes slower in second place.
Flooded course for 46-mile hilly time trial – March 1952
Heavy rain had had caused damage to the course for the hilly time trial and only seven riders turned up to the timekeeper. The course went via Liddington, Wantage and Shefford, similar to previous years, the roads partially flooded in places, but even under these conditions Arthur Frost rode a remarkable race to win in 2:19:26, having over 21 minutes advantage over John Burbage in his first ever time trial. Doug Lawrence who was expected to do well had the misfortune to break his chain.
Inter-club Time Trial
There were thirty-six riders taking part in the inter-club time trial, with the Bath R.C., on March 19th, 1952, with riders now allowed to use “larger” gears to increase their speed. In the end Newbury were the winners with an aggregate win of 2 minutes. Arthur Frost was the quickest club rider with 1:5:28. Interesting to note that even with larger gears Harry Atkins was only 30s quicker than his time earlier in the month when on a restricted gear.
Smith Handicap Shield 25 mile time trial
The Smith handicap shield was held in April 1952 in high winds and rain, on the Hungerford course. Quickest rider was Doug Lawrence in 1:8:25 followed by Phil Turk, 1:11:38 and John Burbage in 1:13:1. However, it was George Wells with an 8 minute handicap who carried away the trophy with an adjusted time of 1:6:1.
Arthur Frost Quickest Club Rider in Bath Hilly 50.
Frost put up another sterling performance in the Bath Hilly 50 mile time trial in 1952, recording a time of 2:21:37 leading home a Road Club team with Stan Partridge, 2:34:1, and J. Harding 2:40:32.
Frost Wins Club hilly 50
The Jubilee “Hilly 50” event was held at the end of April in 1952, Frost putting good form to use, was the quickest club rider recording a time of 2:21:00, with Doug Lawrence the second rider in 2:27:24. A total of eight riders started the event for the club but only six finished as two went off course.
Hounslow and District Wheelers 25 Miles Time Trial.
The Newbury ladies put up a strong showing in the Hounslow 25 mile event on the west of Reading course on 1st June 1952, with Pat Moroney the leading club rider in 1:14:27 followed by June Northover, Daphne Jones and Celia Barnicott. It was always going to be a challenge as they were competing in a field containing some of the best riders from across the country.
Ladies Riding Track Meeting
Saturday 31st May racing a Palmer Park track, Daphne Hines was placed second in the five lap pursuit and Celia Barnicott came second in the two mile point to point.
Frost Breaks Club 50 Record – 22nd June 1952
Riding the Fulham Wheelers 50 mile time trial event on the west of Reading course Arthur Frost broke the club record for the distance recording a time of 2:9:25. The team was completed by Doug Lawrence and Dave Jones who recorded 2:15:21 and 2:18:18 respectively.
New Tandem 50 Record
1952 was clearly a good year for breaking club records. Riding the Archer Road Club Tandem 50 miles time trial on Sunday 6th July 1952, Ray Barratt and Stanley Partridge became the first club members to get inside 2 hours for the distance. A trouble free ride saw them complete the distance in 1:56:58 well inside the previous time of 2:10:28 recorded by the Atkins brothers. They also recorded the second best time on handicap during the event.
“R.O.S.B.A.N.” Trophy 25 Mile Time Trial
Promoted in 1952 by Newbury Road Club, this event in August was contested by riders from local clubs including those from Reading, Oxford, Swindon, Banbury, Aylesbury and Newbury, with three categories, fastest, fastest handicap and fastest team of four. Honours were evenly split with Arthur Frost coming in second with 1:5:41 and Harry Atkins, third in 1:6:19. Banbury riders won the handicap section and Swindon Wheelers the team, closely followed by Newbury.
Club 50 Mile Time Trial
Arthur Frost was again the winner of the Road Club’s 50 mile time trial run off at the end of September 1952 in a time of 2:17:50 ahead of D. Jones who recorded 2:22:30.
Frost Wins Again!
Frost was almost unstoppable in 1952 when he won the 30 mile time trial for the Ball-Richards trophy with a time of 1:22:29. Dave Jones punctured, and Harry Atkins found the going tough and retired midway. Doug Lawrence came in second with 1:24:10.
First Time Trial of 1953
Only five riders turned up to the timekeeper for the first time trial of the year on the March 4th and it was Arthur Frost, again, starting last rider off who rode through the field to win in 1:9:6.
Annual 46 Mile Hilly Time Trial
The annual hilly “46” mile time trial in 1953 was held on 8th March. The race turned into a tussle between Arthur Frost and Jim Bailey, the latter having recently returned from National Service, who was putting in some “serious” training. Frost just had the edge over Bailey recording 2:23:10 with the later recording 2:25:50. L. Jones was the timekeeper.
Smith Shield 1953
The 1953 Smith Shield handicap was another tussle between Bailey and Frost. The race on March 15th saw the pair nearly three minutes ahead of their rivals on actual time, with Bailey beating Frost on handicap with three minutes, and handicap winner on 1:5:16. The donor of the shield, S.J. Smith (Sid) the timekeeper for the event.
Newbury Road Club Open 25 Mile Time Trial
The Road Club’s Open 25 mile time trial was held on the Hungerford course on Sunday 12th April. J. Barraclough of the Western R.C. was the quickest rider in 1:4:7. Quickest Newbury rider was Jim Bailey in 1:6:4.
Hilly 50 Mile Time Trial
There were only six starters for the Club’s 50 mile hilly time trial in April 1953. Times were around 5 minutes slower than the previous year and once again a close run thing between Jim Bailey and Arthur Frost. The first finisher was Bailey in 2:26:6, but he was followed over the line by Frost who recorded 2:25:34.
Jubilee Hilly 50, 1953
Only a couple of weeks after the hilly 50 time trial, the Road Club held its annual Jubilee Hilly 50. The quickest time was recorded by Arthur Frost with 2:19:19, with John Burbage in second at 2:26:22. In the ladies 25 time trial held the same day, Daphne Jones was quickest in 1:19:33.
Ladies National 25 mile Time trial Championship
June Northover, clearly in good form, competed in the national 25 mile championship on the K17 course, on 14th June 1953. The course was between Stonebridge and Meriden where she recorded her best time and a new club record in 1:11:27. The previous afternoon she took part in a track meeting at Salford Park in Birmingham, riding the 440 yds handicap and the Ladies National Sprint Championship over 660 yds.
The week following the championship she competed in a six lap point-to-point race at Slough, only failing by one point to win first prize. She had a total of 14 points versus the winners 15, having been third on the first lap and first in the next four, followed by second on the final lap.
Frost and then Bailey Break Club 100 Record
Arthur Frost was an early starter in the West London CA “100” on a local course (the H5), when he recorded a time of 4:47:29 which beat his own club record, for it to be bettered later by Jim Bailey who recorded a time of 4:45:7; the team was completed by Doug Lawrence in 4:58:51.
Ball-Richards Trophy Event
Seven riders took part in the 1953 edition of the Ball-Richards 30 mile time trial. The first two riders got inside the previous course record. A local course was used with two turns and varied directions with the wind helping and hindering riders. Arthur Frost was first to finish in 1:20:47, closely followed by Doug Lawrence, 1:21:28, and John Burbage, 1:22:42. Jim Bailey took a wrong turn and ended up recording 1:25:31, so was out of the medals.
New Ladies 50 Record
August 1953 and riding the Camberley Wheelers Ladies 50 mile time trial Daphne Jones recorded a time of 2:32:3 taking over 14 minutes from the previous club record.
Burns Handicap 25 Mile Time Trial
September 1953 the Road Club held the annual Burns handicap “25” event. Don Goodfellow recorded his best ever time of 1:9:12 and with an 8m 30s handicap won first handicap when the times were corrected. A total of 13 riders took part, but fancied rider Doug Lawrence had a puncture; Jim Bailey starting from scratch recorded the quickest time with 1:3:47.
The junior race for the “Comber Cup” was won by Robin Morris in 1:10:3, ahead of John Vockins and F. Harrison.
Championship 25 Mile Time Trial, 1953
Jim Bailey was best in the Road Club’s “25” championship in October 1953. On the west of Newbury course, he recorded 1:4:53 with his nearest rival Arthur Frost at 1:7:2. No-one else got under 1h 10m for the event.
The ladies’ competed for the “Pirouet Cup” held over 10 miles, which was won by June Northover in 29:23 ahead of Daphne Jones in 30:30.
Season Opening Hilly “46”
The 1954 racing season started off in earnest with the Road Club’s Hilly 46-mile time trial. Arthur Frost riding his first event of the season passed three other riders to record 2:36:48 for first spot, Brian Tarry was second in 2:51:50 with John Burbage third in 3:2:30.
Annual Open “25” Mile Time Trial
Newbury Road Club held its third annual Open”25” on Sunday 11th April 1954. A full field of 120 faced the timekeeper; the event was clearly very popular as 30 entries were returned. The winner was J. Foolkes of N. Bucks R.C. in 1:3:49 and the team prize was won by Chippenham and District Wheelers for a third year in a row. John Burbage was the fastest Road Club rider in 1:7:1.
Bath Road Hilly 50; April 1954
Once again Arthur Frost rode the Bath R.C. Hilly “50” recorded a time of 2:20:54 on a course which included Workhouse Hill out from Wantage.
Annual Hilly “50” Mile Time Trial
Newbury Road Club held their annual “Hilly 50” time trial in the Kingsclere-Basingstoke area on 9th May 1954. Jim Bailey led the way with a time of 2:23:22 with Arthur Frost the nearest challenger in 2:24:5 and Doug Lawrence third in 2:30:24. The leading riders were riding gears ranging from 77 and 81 inches.
Ball-Richards Trophy – August 1954
The Road Clubs “30” mile championship was a first victory for John Burbage. The course included Long Lane, Shaw, the main road to Oxford and the Lambourn Valley Road, a tricky ride due to wet conditions. Burbage recorded a time of 1:20:37 and had his first victory following a number of runner-up spots. His closest challenges were Mike Cockburn in 1:21:45 and Doug Lawrence who finished in 1:21:55. One rider was delayed somewhat on meeting a herd of cows! The previous holder of the trophy Arthur Frost chose not to ride and competed in the Bournemouth Arrow “50” finishing in 2:12:58.
Frost Breaks “50” Record
Riding in the Southern Counties Cycling Union “50” mile T.T. on the same course as the previous week, at Bournemouth, Arthur Frost reduced his record for the club, recorded a time of 2:8:45, reducing his own club record by 40s.
Frost Breaks “100” Record
Frost continued his good form and in September 1954 he rode the High Wycombe C.C. open 100 mile time trial. Frost took seven minutes off the previous club record and put up a time of 4:40:16. Having broken the “50” record the previous weekend he put himself in an almost impregnable position to win the 1954 club best all-rounder championship.
Starkey Trophy 50-mile scratch and “Festival” handicap “50-mile time trials
A cold misty morning met the riders at the end of September when they competed for the scratch 50 mile time trial and handicap trophy were competed for together; Arthur Frost was clearly the target rider to be beaten. John Burbage was riding well, leading Frost at 12 miles before he had a blown tyre which robbed him of a chance to beat his adversary. Dave Jones was also riding well and had a battle royal with Frost. However, he was nearly a minute slower than Frost who recorded a time of 2:19:6, Jones with 2:20:4 and John Burbage with 2:22:52.
Dave Jones was the winner of the “Festival” handicap 50, with an adjusted time of 2:10:4 (10 minute handicap), second was John Burbage, 2:12:52 and third Graham Reed 2:16:25.
Arthur Frost riding the Belle View “50” in 1968 (Image © the owner)
Frost’s Third Title!
Having scooped the 50 and 100 titles, Frost won the 25 mile championship of Newbury Road Club at the end of September which was held over the Hungerford course. A strong westerly wind slowed the riders to the turn at Savernake Forest, but Frost rode well to record a time of 1:5:1. Second was newcomer Mike Cockburn in 1:6:18 and J. Burbage third in 1:7:21.
Time Trialling 1955
First Event of Year
What was starting to become the traditional “pipe opener”, a 10 mile time trial was held on Sunday 6th March 1955. This event was held on the Hungerford course to the west of Newbury with riders restricted to a gear of 72 inches. Dave Jones was quickest on a challenging morning recording a time of 28:53 with Graham Reed was over two minutes behind.
Formation of the Reading Track League?
Saturday 5th March 1955, two club members attended a meeting in Reading, where a track league of 14 clubs was formed for racing on Palmer Park track, which was to be resurfaced in 1955. Club members having previously attended open events on the old track.
Hilly 46 Mile Time Trial
Sunday 13th March, the Road Club, once again, held its hilly 46 mile time trial. The course was particularly challenging in the fresh breeze, with John Burbage, riding a low fixed gear, winning in 2:27:50, getting an early season victory over club champion Arthur Frost, on variable gears, recording 2:31:0, with Dave Jones, who crashed and had gear trouble third in 2:37:30.
Smith Shield 1955, 25 Mile Handicap Time Trial
The Road Clubs annual 25 mile time trial for the Smith Shield, presented by founder member and vice-president, S. J. Smith was competed for on the Hungerford course on March 27th, 1955. A cold north-easterly made the return leg a “grind” for all the riders. The handicap winner was Mike Cockburn in 1:10:05 with a three minute allowance, also third fastest actual time. Second fastest and second handicap was Dave Jones with 1:9:7 and 1 ½ minutes handicap time and Jim Bailey who was on scratch recorded 1:8:36 and was third on handicap.
Club Open “25” Mile Time Trial
The clubs open 25 TT was held on the west of Newbury course on Sunday 3rd April. The riders were faced with a westerly wind, but S. G. Youlden (Kingswood R.C.) returned a time of 1:4:1 and John Woodburn (Bon Amis C.C.) was second in 1:4:34. The Road Club were second in the team race, the fastest rider was Dave Jones in 1:6:36 just getting the better of Arthur Frost who recorded 1:6:57.
Start Sheet from Club Open “25”. Note “Private and Confidential” – through back to cycle racing ban on the roads.
Frost Rides Bath R.C. Hilly “50”.
According to Frost the 1955 edition was the toughest yet with 40 miles being into the wind! However, he still managed to record a time of 2:27:41 for the 50 miles.
Burns Handicap Trophy 1955
Dave Jones and Arthur Frost battled for the honours of fastest rider on the Hungerford course, over 25 miles, although the winner of the cup was based on handicap time. Only 11 seconds separated the two at the end with Jones quicker recording 1:6:28 and Frost with 1:6:39. The club champion was never likely to win the handicap prize with a performance like this from Jones who with a two minute handicap was an easy winner. Second handicap was Mike Cockburn with 1:7:58 and third Graham Reed with 1:9:51.
And it can get even closer!
The club’s 25 mile time trial championship was held on 1st May 1955; and it couldn’t be closer! The race was held on the west of Newbury course on the Bath Road, and a strong crosswind slowed many of the riders, but Arthur Frost and Dave Jones ignored this both recording times of 1:5:55, a dead heat! This was the closest championship for years with 54 seconds covering the first five riders.
The Mayoress, (Mrs F.P. Pirouet) presenting Dave Jones and Arthur Frost with the “25” Championship Trophy at the Annual Dinner[Freeman’s Photographic Service, Image © the owner]
Frost Wins Jubilee Trophy
The Road Club’s “Jubilee Hilly” 50 mile time trial took place on a course around the Basingstoke area on Sunday 8th May 1955 with a first victory of the season for Arthur Frost. At 25 miles John Burbage was leading Frost by 30s, but over the second half it was Frost who pulled back the time and some more to win in 2:26:0 followed by Burbage in 2:27:26. Third place was taken by Graham Reed who recorded 2:38:56, riding this event for the first time.
Berks, Oxon and Bucks 25 Mile Championship
The championship in 1955 was held on the west of Newbury course on Sunday 29th May. D. Jones was the fastest Newbury rider, recording 1:5:32 which also placed him fourth in the event. The first three riders were from the Maidenhead club. Arthur Frost recorded 1:6:45 and the third counter for the team, Robin Morris in 1:10:19.
Palmer Park Resurfaced
Whit-Monday Dave Jones rode the newly resurfaced Palmer Park track at Reading and was fourth over the line in the three mile event which was run off at an average speed of nearly 30 m.p.h.!
Jones Second in Slough Race
Dave Jones riding the Slough C. & A.C. Open 50 TT on Sunday 5th June rode well to secure second place in a field of 65 riders in a time of 2:13:31, a 41s improvement over his previous best time.
Fastest “50” of the Season
The Road Club had five entries in the WLCA 50 TT at Pangbourne on Sunday 3rd July. Conditions were far from ideal, but Arthur Frost still managed to record a time of 2:11:32, the fastest club ride of the year. Doug Lawrence was second with 2:14:4 followed by John Burbage in 2:16:16 which was a personal best by 30s. Dave Jones started fast but “blew-up” and could only manage 2:16:41, presumably pushing to try to beat Frost!
Ball-Richards 30-Mile Time Trial
A stiff breeze put paid to any chances of fast times in the Ball-Richards 30 mile time trial on Sunday 11th September 1955. Fastest was the current holder of the trophy John Burbage who recorded a time of 1:21:00 to retain the trophy. Dave Jones was his nearest challenger in 1:21:50 with Arthur Frost just 15s slower, possibly feeling the effects of having covered 228 miles in the WLCA 12 hour time trial two weeks previously.
Club Championship 50 Mile Time Trial
John Burbage showed continued late season form to win the club championship over 50 miles on scratch beating Arthur Frost by over two minutes. Burbage recorded a time of 2:15:5, Frost, 2:17:41, Dave Jones, 2:18:6 and Graham Reed 2:21:50. The “Festival” handicap trophy was competed for in the same event. The winner again was Burbage in 2:14:0 with a 1 ½ minute handicap.
Fast Pedalling Christmas!
The last race of 1955 was the Christmas Day time trial over 25 miles on a gear of 62 inches. Some fast pedalling led to some impressive times; Arthur Frost recorded a time of 1:11:4 with Dave Jones second in 1:12:0.
Time Trials 1956
Smith Handicap Shield
The club saw a new face in the shape of B. Tarry who won the shield in his first race of the season in April 1956. With an actual time of 1:13:0 and a 7 minute handicap his corrected time was 1:6:0. Fastest ride of the morning was A. Frost with 1:8:25 closely followed by J. Burbage in 1:8:54.
Bath Road Hilly 50 Mile Time Trial
Two Newbury competitors took part in the Bath Road Club Hilly 50 promoted by the in April 1956. Facing a head win for 40 of the 50 miles, Arthur Frost found it the hardest event, tougher than previous years (although the previous year was also reported as the toughest!), recorded a time of 2:33:0. The other rider was Mike Cockburn on a trike recording a time of 2:40:14 with a badly damaged driving wheel.
Club Championship 25 Mile Time Trial – 1956
The riders had a cold north easterly wind blowing as the men prepared for the club championship 25 time trial in April 1956. Mike Cockburn surprised the established riders with a magnificent time of 1:5:10, not just an improvement on his best, but two minutes faster than his nearest challenger, Arthur Frost in 1:7:1. Dave Jones was third in 1:7:12 and John Burbage fourth in 1:7:29.
Jubilee Hilly 50 Mile Time Trial
Weather conditions were perfect for the Jubilee Hilly 50 mile time trial in May 1956, held on the course around Kingsclere, Basingstoke and Tadley. Unfortunately, chaos ensued when 15 miles into the race they came across a road closed sign across their path. Two riders who chose to ignore the sign, scrambled over a series of trenches, went on to complete the course. Arthur Frost won the event for the second year running in 2:27:07 and Doug Lawrence was second in 2:37:24.
First Hundred of the Season, June 1956
Arthur Frost rode his first 100 of the 1956 season in the De Laune C.C. event, the sole club rider, recording a time of 4:44:2.
Dave Jones in the Fulham Wheelers 50, 1956(Image © the owner)
Junior 10 and Ladies Pirouet 10 – June 1956
The club’s junior “10” was won by Bob Purdue with a time of 25mins 43s. Other riders included David Thorne (26:04), Robin Morris (26:19) and Gordon Haller (27:59). The Pirouet Cup was won by Rosemary Adnams (28:53) with Pat Lawrence in second (29:54) and A. Rouse third (30:53).
Jones Wins Club 100 Championship
Dave Jones, Arthur Frost and Doug Lawrence rode the WLCA “100”, which was used for the club championship, resulting in victory for Jones in 4:40:26 only 10 seconds outside the club record, with Frost second in 4:45:5 and Lawrence third in 5:1:44.
Dave Jones Breaks Club 100 Record – July 1956
Dave Jones was the first man in the Road Club to break 4:40:00 for 100 miles. In the Ruislip 100 mile time trial he recorded a time of 4:38:55 which beat the old record by 1 minute 21 seconds. Arthur Frost rode the same event and recorded a time of 4:52:18.
Newbury Road Club at a Grass Track Meeting
Riding a grass track meeting at Basingstoke a young and promising rider, Bob Purdue, was a close second in the three-mile race; Dave Jones finished fourth after having a crash.
ROSBAN 25 Mile Time Trial
Three club members rode the R.O.S.B.A.N. 25 mile time trial, with Mike Cockburn (1:5:22) second fastest and first handicap prize. Dave Jones was fourth in 1:8:21 and Joe Newman second handicap in 1:9:39.
West London CA 12 Hour Race
A tough day in the saddle for competitors at the West London 12-Hour event. To qualify for the Club BAR riders needed to complete the 12 hour distance. A team of Road Club riders had an all-day struggle in the saddle. Arthur Frost did well to cover 218 miles, and the other rider Doug Lawrence had a bad spell and rode gallantly to cover 107 miles before his time elapsed.
West London CA 25 Mile Time Trial
The West London C.A. events were always very popular, and 150 riders took part in a 25 mile time trial at the end of September 1956. Bob Purdue and Mike Cockburn recorded very fast times, close to the club record, in 1:3:12 and 1:3:28 respectively.
Burns Handicap 25 Mile Time Trial
Early October 1956 the Club held the annual “Burns” handicap time trial. The trophy was won by one of the clubs’ older members, Brian Tarry with Robin Morris second and John Burbage third. The fastest ride of the day was by Bob Purdue in 1:6:28.
First Club 25 of 1957 Season
Seven riders took part in the first 25 mile time trial of the season on 17th March. Mike Cockburn recorded the fastest time of the day of 1:7:50 but a young Brian Copas surprised the field recording 1:8:40, his fastest time ever on a gear restricted to 72 inches.
At the same event June Burden and Alice Rouse rode 10 mile time trials recording 30:00 and 31:12 respectively.
West London CA 25 Mile Time Trial
On un-restricted gears six members of the club rode the WLCA 25 mile time trial in difficult conditions. Dave Jones was the fastest Road Club rider in 1:6:35 with Mike Cockburn just one second slower. Brian Copas was the slowest Newbury rider in 1:11:10.
Smith Shield Handicap April 1957
The Smith Shield was presented by one of the clubs founding members, Sid J. Smith, who was still actively involved with club matters, not least as timekeeper. On this occasion it was Eddie Jones who was the timekeeper.
Dave Jones, having a good start to the ’57 season, recorded the fastest time (1:5:33) was one second faster than the scratch man Bob Purdue with J. Newman in third (1:9:3). Jones also won the handicap.
Newbury Riders 1, 2 and 3
The Berks, Oxon and South Bucks Centre for the National Cyclist Union (N.C.U.) held their annual 25 mile time trial on 14th April ’57. Newbury riders didn’t feature in the scratch prizes, the fastest was Dave Jones in 1:5:51, but they did take the first three prizes in the handicap competition. Joe Newman was first, followed by Peter Bates and Brian Copas with adjusted times of 59:43, 1:0:51 and 1:1:08 respectively.
Jubilee Hilly 50
In 1957 the Jubilee Hilly 50 was held in early May. The course was around Basingstoke, Pamber End and Brimpton. Dave Jones showed off his early season form in a winning time of 2:21:38, with Arthur Frost with 2:29:54 and Doug Lawrence in 2:30:17 came in second and third respectively. Sid Smith was the timekeeper.
WLCA 50 Time Trial
Three riders took part in the WLCA 50 on 19th May 1957. Arthur Frost, who beat Dave Jones in the High Wycombe “25”, once again returned the best time of 2:15:19 and Jones 2:17:41. The third rider John Burbage struggled due to lack of racing and burnt himself out after 40 miles and recorded a time 2:38:17. Members of the club also had their work cut out on this warm morning handing out drinks and sponges to the riders.
Fulham Wheelers 50 Mile Time Trial
Three Newbury riders rode the Fulham Wheelers 50 mile time trial. On a far from perfect morning for racing, Dave Jones recorded a time of 2:12:29 with Arthur Frost only 6 seconds slower and Doug Lawrence with 2:20:40.
Team Record for 25 Time Trial – June 1957
The men’s team record for 25 miles was broken by Bob Purdue, Dave Jones and Arthur Frost who individually recorded 1:3:29, 1:3:54 and 1:4:31, beating the old record by four seconds! The record had previously been set in 1956.
NRC Open 25 Time Trial – September 1957
P.G. Glasspool (Kingsgate and Venta R.C.) won the Road Club’s Open 25 time trial, breaking the course record with 59:10 – which was also the first time the hour had been broken for the Bath Road course west of Newbury. The Road Club also held its own championship at the same event, which was won by Arthur Frost, who was seventh in the main event, with a time of 1:4:48, followed by Dave Jones in 1:5:11 and Bob Purdue in 1:5:34.
Greenford Ladies 25 Time Trial
The same weekend on the Reading side of Newbury, Rosemary Adnams and Alice Rouse recorded times of 1:13:12 and 1:15:27 respectively, which was enough to give Rouse second handicap prize.
Road Club BAR Competition
Riding in the Middlesex Road Club’s 12 hour time trial, Dave Jones did well to record a mileage of 217 ¾ which gives him first place in the club’s BAR which Arthur Frost had held for a number of years. Although his 12 hour distance is better than Jones, his 50 and 100 are not as good.
Club 25 Record Broken
Sunday 22nd September 1957, Dave Jones broke the club 25 mile time trial record which had stood since 1948 by J. Thomas. Jones recorded 1:2:47 beating the previous time by 23 seconds. Conditions had been excellent with a warm south westerly wind blowing and a wet road surface which made the going that bit faster, Purdue found that was also the case and fell on one of the many turns finally finishing on a softening tyre.
The other record recently broken was the long standing 30 record. The record had been set in 1937 by Tom Froude in 1:18:31 and Bob Purdue beat the time by 39 seconds to record in 1:17:52.
First Club Results – February 1958
Once again in 1958, the first event of the season was a 10 mile time trial. Quickest was Dave Jones in 26:23 with Chris Bradley second in 26:29.
Hilly 46 Mile Time Trial
The early season 46 mile hilly time trial was held round the Baydon-Wantage circuit in 1958. Dave Jones was the winner in 2:24:45, second John Burbage in 2:29:35 and third Arthur Frost in 2:38:16.
Smith Shield and Interclub 25
The Inter-club 25 held with the Bath Road Club, also included the competition for the Smith Shield. On handicap the winner was Dave Jones in 1:5:23. Jones having a great start to the season!
Jubilee Hilly 50 Mile Time Trial - 1958
The club’s time trial for the Jubilee Trophy was held on the Basingstoke, Pamber End, Brimpton course. Last year’s winner Dave Jones retained the trophy in 2:21:12 with Brian Copas, in only his second ride at the distance, gaining second spot with an excellent time of 2:25:46, beating Arthur Frost and John Burbage into third and fourth with 2:26:31 and 2:29:26 respectively.
Busy Whitsun Weekend 1958
Dave Jones started the weekend off well taking 11s off his club 100 record with a time of 4-38:44. Arthur Frost and Brian Copas rode a 50 mile TT recording 2:14:57 and 2:22:40 respectively on Whit Monday, with Frost also recording a 2:16:27 in a time trial on the Bath Road on Sunday. Dave Canning riding in a 25 mile TT event at Andover knocked two minutes off his best with a time of 1:8:24.
At the Bon Amis track meeting at Palmer Park Monday afternoon, Rosemary Adnams in her first attempt at track racing was third in the 880 yards event but eliminated in the six lap pursuit.
Burns Handicap TT – 16 Year Old Wins! 1958
The annual 25 time trial for the prestigious Burns Trophy was held mid-June 1958; Burns won the trophy himself over 60 years earlier. The winner was a 16 year old Dave Canning whose actual time was 1:9:17 and with a 6 minute handicap his net time was 11 seconds better than scratch man Dave Jones. The Comber Junior Trophy held at the same time was won by Chris Bradley with 1:6:28.
Marshalled Championship “100”
In 1958, racing was very active in the club, but the members were still busy helping and organising races. So, it was in 1958, when they marshalled the National Championship 100 mile time trial which was won by Ray Booty with a time of 4:1:25. No members took part.
Frost Wins Club 100 – 1958
The NRC combined their 100 Championship with the WLCA 100 on Sunday 13th July 1958. Arthur Frost beat his own record to post the fastest club time of 4:39:39 with Dave Jones in second with 4:43:03.
Racing in Bristol – July 1958
Road Club members were starting to race further afield and in July ’58, they rode the Bristol South C.C. “25” on Sunday 20th July. Pete Jarvis recorded a time of 1:4:14, Joe Newman 1:7:35, Peter Bates 1:8:25 and Brian Copas 1:9:10.
Several members spent most of the same day marshalling at the South Western R.C. 12 hour race, at various points in the Wantage and Faringdon area. On their return they had tea with the rest of the club run in Stanford-in-the-Vale.
Evening “10” Increasing in Number
Previously a 10 mile time trial had been used as a season opener, or as an event for junior and lady riders, but during ’58 more reports were emerging of riders competing in a “10” in the midweek club races, presumably because they were a better fit with the daylight.
West London CA 12-hour race 1958
Four members of the Road Club rode the WLCA 12-hour on Sunday 24th August 1958 and for the first time had a team finish the event with a combined distance of 685 miles! The conditions were wet and windy, but this did not prevent Dave Jones from breaking the club record with 241 miles, Arthur Frost covered 224 miles and Joe Newman, in his first 12-hour, 220 miles. The fourth rider John Burbage, also in his first attempt, did not finish the event.
“Guildhall” Festival 50 Mile TT
The 50 mile championship of the club held in conjunction with the handicap event for the Festival Trophy was held 30th September 1958. The Starkey Trophy for the Championship was retained by the holder Dave Jones whose time was 2hrs 10minutes. The handicap was won by John Burbage who was also last year’s winner.
Jones Lowers Club 25 Time
At the end of October 1958, Dave Jones rode the WLCA 25 on the Bath Road near Reading. Jones knocked nine seconds off the previous club “25” record with 1:2:38, other riders also recorded good times, John Burbage 1:4:29, Arthur Frost 1:6:30, Joe Newman 1:7:10 and Dave Canning 1:7:51.
First TT of 1959
The 1st March ’59 saw the first time trial of the new season, with riders racing the Reading Wheelers Medium Gear “25” where all riders gears were restricted to gears of 72 inches. Fastest Newbury rider was Brian Copas in 1:10:3 with John Burbage just behind in 1:10:59 and Arthur Frost in 1:11:23. Jim Cummins, in his first ever competitive event did well to record 1:11:49, but junior rider Dave Canning could only record 1:20:2.
First Club Time Trial of 1959
The first club time trial of the new season was also a medium gear event with gears restricted to 72 inches. The morning was not conducive to fast times with a cold northerly cross wind, but Chris Bradley rode well to record a time of 1:8:18. Dave Canning was second with 1:11:44 and Brian Copas third in 1:11:53.
Canning Retains Smith Shield
Once again Dave Canning retained the Smith Shield, by winning the Road Clubs 25 time trial on the Hungerford course, with a time of 1:5:19 net (handicap 2m 30s), second was Jim Cummins 1:5:30 (4m 30s) and third Gordon Haller 1:6:15.
Marshalled Mass Start Race in Goring
Road racing was in its early days for the club. In the 1950’s there was only one report of members actually participating, but in March members marshalled a road race near Goring. Later riding to Crux Easton and via Longparish for tea in Stockbridge.
Lawrence Wins Newbury 25 Time Trial
19th April 1959 was the first occasion following the death of C.W. Burns that the club had contested the trophy and a field of eleven turned up to the timekeeper. The fastest net time was Doug Lawrence (1:5:13) followed by Pete Jarvis (1:5:23) and Arthur Frost (1:5:29).
Bath Road Hilly 50 Time Trial 1959
There were three riders in the Hilly “50” which covered roads from Pangbourne, Blewbury, Wantage, Shefford, Newbury and Yattendon. Arthur Frost was the quickest Newbury rider in 2:30:15 followed by Pete Jarvis and Chris Bradley in 2:35:56 and 2:35:56 respectively.
Frost Wins Jubilee Hilly 50
The Jubilee Hilly 50 time trial was held on 3rd May 1959 on a course from Newbury to Basingstoke, taking in Tadley, Aldermaston and Brimpton. Although the weather was not favourable, Arthur Frost returned to timekeeper Chris Bradley in 2:28:35, only 35 seconds slower was John Burbage with 2:29:10 and Brian Copas in 2:29:17, with the fourth finisher Pete Jarvis in 2:40:33.
WLCA 50 for Starkey Trophy – 31 May 1959
There were six entries for the Starkey 50 trophy at the end of May ’59 held as part of the WLCA 50 event. The winner was Arthur Frost 2:11:59 with John Burbage second in 2:13:7 with Dave Canning put up the best performance by a junior club rider with a time of 2:14:23, which gave him third handicap in the race and also third in the club championship.
Festival Trophy 50 Mile Time Trial
The festival Trophy 50 mile handicap time trial was held at the end of August 1959. The race was run over the course from Pangbourne to Abingdon and back. The winner was Joe Newman whose time was 2:12:25 with a handicap of four minutes. Second was Pete Jarvis 2:13:18 (6 minutes handicap) and third Arthur Frost 2:17:45 (scratch).
Hill Climb Championships
The Road Club hill climbs championship was typically held at the end of the year, usually the last race of the season. But always very competitive! In 1948 the clubs hill climb championship used the White Shute Hill (believed to be at Burghclere) on the road from Newbury to Winchester, over a distance of 500yds. There were eight competitors with the fastest being Ray Barratt (1 minute 4s) with Peter Drummond only a second behind and John Drummond, his brother, finishing third (1 minute 13s).
In 1949 there were twelve starters for the championship which was won by Dave Jones in 2 minutes 4s from John Fish and Bob Graham who recorded 2 minutes 22s and 2 minutes 27s respectively. The event used Elmsdown Hill (also known as Spring Hill), near Ramsbury. Both Jones and Fish beat the previous record time on the hill.
The annual hill climb race in 1950 was again held on Elmsdown Hill. The climb was 660 yards long and had an average gradient of 1 in 6 with the steepest parts of 1 in 3, yet the winner managed to complete the hill climb at 12 ½ m.p.h.! Harry Atkins caused a sensation when he managed to complete the climb in 1 minute 55s, the first time a rider had beaten 2 minutes, taking 9 seconds off the old club record. The previous champion Dave Jones also broke his previous record in 2 minutes 3s but was not good enough. Further drama happened when 16 minutes later Ken Atkins climbed the hill in an exceptional time of 1 min 51s! The winner rode a gear of 59 inches and 7 inch cranks, apparently the only rider to do so. The timekeepers were Mrs. Vera Fullwood and Mr
Club Hill Climb Championship 1950 (Images © the owner)
Dead Heat in Hill Climb
In 1951 the Road Club hill climb championship ended in a dead heat. Once again racing on Elmsdown Hill, where C. Sherman and D. Jones both recorded 2minutes 7s for the hill.
In 1954 for the “second” time in the history of the club there was another dead heat in the annual hill climb championship. The venue was once again Elmsdown Hill. D. Jones was a little slower than his previously recorded time of 2minutes 12s. Brian Tarry then recorded a time of 2mins 13s, and he was followed by Mike Cockburn in 2min 12s. Most riders were complaining of wheel spin due to the damp conditions.
Record Attempts
Newbury to Hungerford Record Attempts
On 22nd July 1948 Eddie Jones and John Drummond attacked the Newbury to Hungerford place -to-place record on a tandem, recording a time of 41 minutes 22 seconds, missing the previous record for the 17 miles of 40 minutes 50s by 32 seconds, which had been set pre-war by A. Page and E.R. Bance. However, a further attempt in August, in the early hours of Saturday morning, was successful, when they returned a time of 40 minutes 20 seconds, beating the previous record at an average speed of 25.25 m.p.h.
Eddie Jones (rear) and (John Drummond or Will Fullwood?) on the Bath Road as they attack a Newbury place to place record (Image © the owner)
The Hungerford and back record on a solo had stood for many years at 43 minutes 10s set by Tom Froude in 1937, and an attempt was made by Bob Graham at the record in 1949, which he missed by 1 minute 35s on a far from good evening, but which really shows the quality of Froude’s record time set twelve years earlier.
Harry Atkins, however, made his first attempt at the record in July 1950, and recorded a time of 41 min 38s, beating yet another pre-war record.
At the end of July 1951, the Atkin brothers made another attempt on the Newbury to Hungerford and back tandem record, breaking the record previously held by John Drummond and Eddie Jones since 1948 by 3 minutes 13s, with a time of 37 minutes 11s for the 17 mile test, the first time inside 40 minutes.
There was fierce competition for place-to-place records in the 1950’s and so it was interesting to see that mid-June 1953, the Hungerford and back record was again attacked twice over one weekend. In June Jim Bailey and Arthur Frost recorded times of 41 minutes 24s and 42 minutes 11s respectively. Clearly Frost was not happy with this and had another go for the record the following day, recording 42min 15s. Doug Lawrence also made an attempt at the record recording 42 minutes 35s. Frost would never manage to break the record. The last solo attempt at the record was by Pete Tanner in 1962 who recorded 40 minutes 58s.
Dave Jones and Mike Cockburn riding a recently acquired tandem set a new record for the Newbury to Hungerford and back tandem record, recording a time of 36 minutes 27s in 1956, breaking the existing time by 44s. This was the last attempt made on the record by tandem, and the last attempt at this particular place to place record.
Newbury to Bath and back Record Attempts – 100 Miles
Wilf Fullwood and Eddie Jones had also planned an attempt on the Newbury to Bath and back record in October, however, this was abandoned due to weather conditions, but following the postponement, in 1959, Jones and Fullwood made a successful attempt at the tandem cycle record on 29th May. The record had not been attempted before so the committee set a standard time of 6 hours which had to be beaten.
The duo left Newbury shortly after 6am and made good progress until reaching Chippenham where a head wind picked up making the going tough until the turn. The wind was in their favour on the return leg through Box, Calne, Yatesbury and Marlborough, until they reached Hungerford where the wind veered around for the home run. The pair finished at the Broadway recording a time of 5 hours 5 minutes 35s, inside the standard time, and setting a new club record.
September 1950 saw an unprecedented three attacks on the Newbury to Bath place-to-place records. Two were on solos and the third on a tandem. Harry and Ken Atkins teamed up on the tandem for their first long distance attempt and returned a time of 4 hours 37 minutes 15s, beating the time previously set up by Wilf Fullwood and Eddie Jones. Arthur Frost and Harold Barlow were the two riders making an attempt on solos, Frost recording 5 hours 7 minutes 29s and Barlow 5 hours 9 minutes 48s, with a punctured rear tyre, both inside the standard time set for the tandem!
Starting at 5am Sunday 29th July 1951, Doug Lawrence attempted to lower the existing time of 5h 7m 29s for the Bath and back record established by Arthur Frost in 5h 7m 29s. Riding into a headwind Lawrence made the turn in 2h 20m and returned back to Newbury with 4h 58m 25s which lowered the record by 9 minutes.
Frost was clearly having none of this. The following Sunday with slightly better conditions Frost reached Bath in 2h 18m, faster than Lawrence. Maintaining good progress on the tough return leg he was up a further 2m 3s to give an overall time of 4h 54m 24s, knocking another 4 minutes off the record!
Winchester and Back Record Attempt
The last Sunday in March 1950, Harold Barlow, the clubs quickest 50 mile time trialist at the time, decided to try to set up a Newbury to Winchester and back solo record and set a standard time for future riders to attempt to beat. Barlow had to battle a cold and strong easterly wind but clocked a time of 2 hours 34 minutes 12s.
In October 1950, Wilf Fullwood and Bob Graham attempted to set up a tandem record for Winchester and back. Graham has never raced further than 30 miles! The south-west wind made the going hard to the turn in Winchester, reached in 1 hour 19 minutes, expecting to be blown home they discovered the wind had also changed direction making the going tough on the return leg as well. They finished in a time of 2 hours 37 minutes 32s; hoping to have another go on the record time in the following year.
In April 1951 Arthur Frost and Peter Clark attempted to break the bicycle record for Newbury to Winchester and back previously held by Harold Barlow. A strong westerly made the going tough, Frost returning in a time of 2 hours 29 minutes 47s but he only held the record for twenty four minutes until Clark recorded a time of 2 hours 28 minutes 8s, both breaking Barlow’s record. Frost was proposing making further attempts, clearly believing he could lower the record further.
Only one week after breaking the club 100 mile time trial record, Frost once again attacked the record to Winchester and back on July 8th, 1951, recording a time of 2h 22m 14s, taking nearly 6 minutes off the previous best time!
In 1952 riding a tandem Harry Atkins and Roy Green lowered the Newbury to Winchester and back record by over ten minutes. Having to contend with a cross wind they made good progress and steadily built up an advantage returning to the timekeeper in 2 hours 24 minutes 37s, slower than the solo record!
Newbury to Reading and Back Record Attempts, 33 Miles
Following their success breaking the Winchester and back record, Atkins and Green made a successful attempt at the Newbury to Reading place-to-place tandem record in 1952. The previous time of 1 hour 19 minutes 28s had been held by Wilf Fullwood and D. Riseley since 1939 was considered to be one of the best tandem records on the books and was beaten by just over a minute with 1 hour 16 minutes 53s.
A further attempt in July 1952 was made by Ray Barratt and Stanley Partridge saw the time reduced to 1h 12m 16s.
Newbury to Banbury and Back Record Attempt, 98 Miles
Not all record attempts were successful, and the duo of Atkins and Green crashed heavily when in July 1952 attempting the Newbury to Banbury and back record wrecking the tandems steering. Both riders were brought back to Newbury suffering no more than cuts and bruises. No further attempts were made on this record on a tandem.
AGM
The first annual general meeting post-war 1947 held at the “George and Dragon Hotel” in Newbury. Initially S.J. Smith was appointed as chairman with Tom Perrins as runs secretary and club captain. G.H. Goodman was elected vice-captain and Jack Thomas, Eddie Jones and F. Palmer appointed onto the committee, but this was probably a holding pattern until the club restarted properly.
The next annual general meeting wasn’t until 1949, held at the Tudor Café. C.W. Burns was re-elected as president, Sid J. Smith was appointed chairman, Bertha Bance honorary secretary and treasurer, Eddie Jones, captain and Dennis Harvey vice-captain with Wilf Fullwood racing secretary. The annual subscription was raised to 10s with 6s 6d for members under 18. Mr. Cleverley of the “Robin Hood” was made an honorary life member.
There does appear to be some reports of annual meetings missing from the NWN, The 28th annual meeting held in January 1952 began on a cheery note with the treasurer Mr M. Davey commenting that “not one effort undertaken in 1951 had incurred a loss, thereby putting the club in a better financial position than ever before”.
After some discussion it was decided to reinstate the position of Club Captain, which had been replaced by “runs secretary” for the year previously, as “no benefit” was perceived. Dennis Harvey was appointed into this position in 1952.
What was interesting to note was the election of a bicycle polo secretary – although only one report of a match was reported in the NWN in 1951.
The annual meeting in February 1953 reported how the club was in a very sound state with a balance in hand of £66 18s 6d. Prospects for the future were said to be good. As well as appointing committee members, the club decided to abandon the cycle polo section due to lack of support, so the section didn’t last long!
Held the day after the club’s annual dinner in 1954, the annual meeting was held at the “Sun Hotel”. Eddie Jones reported that although the club was £71 to the good compared to the previous year, they had failed to pay their way as £74 was raised for the Building Fund for a future club room.
In 1959, for the first time in many years the annual meeting, held at the Community Centre, was chaired by Sid Smith as Alderman C.W. Burns had been taken ill. All the usual reports were taken, and the committee was elected.
Mr C. W. Burns Dies in Newbury District Hospital
C. W. Burns had been actively involved in a great many aspects of public life in Newbury. His obituary was carried in the Newbury Weekly News on 26th March 1959. As a young man he was associated with the Guildhall Club and Newbury Road Club is fortunate to be the custodian of two of the Guildhall Cycling Club trophies to this day. He ran the Guildhall sports which flourished from 1898 to 1925, although the Guildhall Cycle club stopped in 1903, winning a number of races and becoming actively involved in the offices of the club, which eventually saw him become the longest standing president of the Road Club. The trophy which carries his name is still presented annually at the club’s awards ceremony.
Annual Prize Giving
Annual Club Dinner 1948
In 1948 the annual club dinner was held in the Tudor Café on Friday 26th November. Approximately 50 members and friends attended with Alderman C.W. Burns in the chair, with S.J. Smith proposing the toast to the club, the president responded with an account of cycling in his youth. He also produced souvenirs and illustrations of the early days of cycling in Newbury which he stated went back to 1873. Visitors came from the Westerly Road Club and the Bon Amis Cycle Club from Reading.
The president presented the prizes, the winners being, A. Thomas (Club 25), John Drummond (Club 30), Wilf Fullwood (Best all-rounder and Starkey 50). John Radbourne (Burns Handicap), Ray Barrett (hill climb), Bertha Bance (Ladies 10). Record certificates were also given to A. Thomas for the 25 miles record and Eddie Jones and John Drummond for the Hungerford and back tandem record.
Friday 25th November 1949 the club held the prize giving at the Tudor Café again. Once again, C. W. Burns responding to the toast to the club recalled how he started riding on a penny farthing and S. J. Smith outlined the “difficult years of the Club’s beginning”. Visitors were welcomed from the Bon Amis, Reading Wheelers and Westerley Clubs by club captain Eddie Jones. Mr. Don Lyford commented that “a cycling club had been prominent in Newbury for over 70 years, although under different names”. There followed the prize giving recognising the achievements of the club riders during the year.
The club dinner in 1951 was once again held at the Tudor Café with over 60 members and friends attending. Len Buttery of the Bon Amis C.C. expressed his pleasure that for the first time in the history of the Road Club, it had been granted permission to promote an “open” road time trial in 1952 – his wished the club every success. C. W. Burns once again remarked on the difference between the sport as it was “today” and his experience in his youth.
In 1952 the dinner was once again held at the Tudor café in Newbury with nearly 60 members and friends present on Saturday 6th December. C.W. Burns commented that the year had been most successful for the club due to the tremendous hard work put in by club members. Special mention was made of neighbouring clubs who had ridden over for the evening celebrations including a party from Chippenham and District Wheelers and Swindon Wheelers. Arthur Frost walked off with the largest pile of silver one can imagine, winning the Championships at 25, 30, 50 and 100 miles amongst others.
The 28th annual dinner in 1954 was held at the “Mirror Café” attended by 62 members. During the various cross-toasts, C. W. Burns, the president, reminisced of riding with the old Newbury Bicycle Club and the Guildhall Cycling Club.
The major trophies were awarded to Arthur Frost, Jim Bailey, D. Goodfellow and June Northover, plus numerous awards for the past year including for the club records.
The annual dinner of 1955 was once again held at the Tudor Café. C.W. Burns, the president, praised the “friendly rivalry” within the club members and the “good fellowship”. He recalled how two of the trophies were presented to the Guildhall Cycling Club in 1891 by the Earl of Carnarvon and winning them himself in 1894. Prizes were given to Arthur Frost, club champion, John Burbage, Jim Bailey, Graham Reed, Dave Jones, Robin Morris, Mike Cockburn and D. Goodfellow. The evening concluded with square dancing and games.
In 1956 the venue for the club’s annual dinner had been changed from the Tudor Café to the Plaza, perhaps because the number of guests had increased and 75 people were in attendance. In particular the club congratulated Arthur Frost for winning the West London Cycling Association’s Best All-Rounder competition and Trophy, the first instance this had been achieved in the history of the club.
Dave Jones won most of the senior men trophies for 1957, no fewer than eight! The annual dinner being held at the Chequers Hotel on Friday 1st November 1957. Eighty people attended with representatives of the Bon Amis C.C., Bath Road R.C., Westerley R.C., Salway C.C., Oxford City R.C. and Kingscote and Venta R.C. C.W. Burns presided over affaires. Rosemary Adnams swept the board with the ladies’ trophies, with June Burden, Marilyn Wheeler, and Alice. Rouse also receiving prizes.
Rosemary Adnams and Dave Jones swept the board with the prizes at the Road Clubs annual dinner at the Chequers Hotel on Friday 9th January 1959. Adnams won the ladies championships at “10”, “25”, “30” and the Pirouet Cup. Jones won the Hilly Circuit, the Hilly “50”, Ball Richards “30”, the Hill Climb and the Cross Country Run. Mrs F. P. Pirouet presented the prizes.
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Annual Club Dinner at the Tudor Café, 1948, l to r, S.J. Smith, C.W. Burns (standing), F. P. Pirouet, Cllr Pirouet. (Image © the owner)
| (Newbury Weekly News, 25th January 1954(Image © the owner))
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Club Prize Winners 1956 (Image © the owner)
| Dave Jones presented with “most” of the club trophies by C.W. Burns; Newbury Weekly News 7Nov1957. (Image © the owner)
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R. Adnams, F.P. Pirouet and D. Jones, Newbury Weekly News 15th October 1958 (Image © the owner
Social Activities
Map Reading Competition and Speed Judging Competitions
November 1948, and the social season had started. Ten club members met at the marketplace were handed instructions and clues as part of a route-finding competition. From Thatcham the route took them into the countryside, familiar to many, but with the need for observation skills to answer the clues. At the final count, the winner was Ray Barratt with 19 points, Eddie Jones second with 17 points and L. Smith and Bertha Bance tying for third with 16 points. The challenge was organised by Frank Robertson and Wilf Fullwood.
Later in November 1948 the club organised a trip to the cycle show at Earls Court in London, with members coming away with “much wishful thinking”.
October 1949 and the club held a map reading competition organised by R. Graham and S. Partridge, involving the local lanes and by-ways, local knowledge was tested to the full. A triple tie in the end with Dave Jones, Wilf Fullwood and Dennis Harvey all having maximum points.
A speed judging contest was held in the afternoon with the ladies beating the men, Joyce Jones and Eileen Kirby were first and second respectively.
In 1950 the Newbury Weekly News reported on May 11th of the club’s celebration event for the 25th anniversary. Following the Jubilee 50 time trial the previous Sunday the club held a speed-judging competition over a 10 mile course, which resulted in a tie between Dave Jones and Ken Atkins. Members were then joined at Peasemore for tea with a few original founder members where they had a social evening.
The annual map reading contest in 1950, held in November, was over thirty miles was intended to be followed on a map with clues hidden in a rhyme. Four ladies and eight men set out on the course, but only five made it to the finish, with Bertha Bance and Daphne Jones completing the course correctly and all bar two of the correct answers to the clues. The total event took over 5 hours!
Cross Country Races at Burghfield
Snow and ice failed to deter seven hardy club members from participating in an interclub cross-country race just before Christmas 1950. The interclub event was promoted by the Bon Amis C.C. on Burghfield Common. However, presumably due to the conditions a route on local lanes was used. The Newbury team won the team race with competitors placed first, second and fifth. Peter Clark set a hot pace and only Dave Jones and one Bon Amis runner were able to hang on. They increased their lead over the field before Clark went away alone to win from Jones by 50 yards, Doug Lawrence came in fifth. The Camberly Wheelers came in third in the team competition.
The annual cross country races in 1952 were held during the off-season, in January. This year Dave Jones was the standout runner and comfortably ahead of the field with one mile to go. In the ladies’ race, June Northover had a minute to spare from Pat Moroney with Daphne Jones in third.
The annual cross-country running race of the Road Club was held in December in 1957. This year it was an interclub team race with the Bon Amis, Reading Wheelers and Camberley Wheelers. The Road Club won the team race with Dave Jones, Doug Lawrence, Chris Bradley and Joe Newman. Dave Jones won the event in a course record of 24m 47s, a minute faster than the previous year.
Forty-Six m.p.h on Rollers
After a lecture to the Road Club and C.T.C. members of “Weather Wisdom”, at the end of January 1952, there was a roller racing competition between the Road Club and the C.T.C. The fastest recorded times were five miles, Dave Jones (7m 35.2s), mile, Dennis Harvey (1m 18.1s), ladies’ mile, Pat Maroney (1m 36.2s), ladies’ half-mile, Daphne Jones (43s); highest average speed 46.09 m.p.h. by Dennis Harvey.
Acknowledgements
The authors would like to thank all the secretaries and press secretaries of Newbury Road Club who have submitted copy to the Newbury Weekly News, which has been abstracted from microfilm copy held at the Newbury Library, in part, to provide many of the stories in this chapter. Time trial results have been abstracted from club records and a debt is owed to the secretaries who have maintained these records which are held in the club archive. The authors would also like to express thanks to all the friends of the club and members who have submitted images which really help the story. The authors would also like to express gratitude to Gordon Fry for reviewing and proofing the content.
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