Hastings & St .Leonards Cycling Club Archive

William Wingfield was proprietor of the “Rainbow” Engineering Works.

In the 1896 September 5th edition of the Hastings and St Leonards Observer James found an excellent description of William’s Company premises in an article entitled “Local Engineering and Cycle Works. An Interesting Factory”

“Many persons investing in a cycle believing that in order to get a “wheel” of the first quality it is necessary to send to Coventry, or some other centre specially identified with the bicycle and tricycle producing industry. Accordingly, their orders are sent away, and money, which it would be to the advantage of the local weal to retain in the town, is spent elsewhere. It is probable, however that were they aware that they could be as well served in the borough, they would, on the principle of “keeping trade in the town” as far as possible, only be too pleased to place their orders locally. Yet such is the case, as all could prove for themselves by a visit to Mr W Wingfield’s “Rainbow” Engineering and Cycle Works, Seaside, Marina, St Leonards, or a brief conversation with some of our fastest riders who possess “mounts” which have been made at the establishment mentioned. Mr Wingfield only makes machines of one grade, the highest quality, and for lightness of weight, speed, finish, and strength they are hard to beat. His spacious premises are admirably fitted up with machinery embodying all the latest improvements, and a walk through the factory, where on one floor he turns out, for instance, a crushing machine weighing nine tons, for a brick yard, and on another floor a beautifully finished cycle scaling only 20lbs, affords an object lesson full of profit and interest.

The ground floor is devoted to the heavy and engineering work. Here a gas engine by Kerr, which drives all the machinery, is humming merrily away, and another object is an iron-planning machine. There are also a lathe for heavy work, drilling and shearing machines, the latter for cutting off bar iron. The forge is blown by a fan driven by steam, so that none of the workmen’s energy and strengths is expended on the old fashioned bellows. On the same floor there is also a brass furnace, Mr Wingfield doing a great deal of brass work. All the fittings for the Victoria Baths were cast here. On the ground floor steam engines and planning and moulding machines for woodwork for builders and saw benches are constructed. On the occasion of our visit a ten horsepower steam engine was to be seen ready for delivery.

There is plenty of storage room on the premises, from which most of the local builders have been fitted out with plant, engines and machines. Mr Wingfield who started the works in 1880 and has gradually brought them to their present flourishing state, designed and made a pair of pumps for the Victoria Baths drawing the water from the sea at the rate of 8000 gallons an hour. In fact he arranged the whole of Mr Jenkins establishment when it was fitted up, all the machinery being made at “Rainbow” Works. On the first floor are a variety of machines too numerous to mention, used for turning up the bicycles and other light work, such as drilling machines, lathes, a machine which will cut through a bar of cast steel 1 ½ inches in diameter in 10 minutes, machines for making hubs, machines for making cranks, and spindles, brazing stove and others which we have not space to enumerate.

Mr Wingfield makes his own patterns and cycles are built right throughout on the premises, even the hubs being finished on the Works. He constructs mounts to suit all weights and sizes, the finishing and enamelling being done on the top floor, where also the patterns are made. Machines have been turned out here to be sent to purchasers in Ireland, South Africa and America. The 20 lb path racer is not only “a thing of beauty and a joy forever” to its fortunate possessor, but it is one of the fastest mounts in the market. So well appreciated is the “Wingfield” that during the past Summer our energetic townsmen has always had on hand orders for about 25 machines. Recently he made a roadster, which, with gear case complete, only weighed 22 ½ lb. Several leading cyclists ride and have won prizes on “The Wingfield” for the construction of which their designer possess as complete and excellent a plant as could be desired, and that there is a great future for the machine there can be no doubt. But as we have conveyed, Mr Wingfield’s work is not confined to cycle making, his operations embracing branches of heavier engineering construction, for which he has gained a high reputation.”

James wondered if the above information was sound business preparation for the next article he found in the newspapers.

Around about November 21st 1897, there appeared another article in the HSLO entitled “A Local Cycle Company” inviting the public to subscribe to the capital of the Hastings and St Leonards Engineering, Cycle and Motor Car Company Ltd. The share capital was £2500 in pound shares and the directors were Messrs Councillor L O Glenister, Councilor Slade, R H Gabby, J C Miller and Newman Chennells. “All gentlemen whose excellent business qualifications are well known.” The company had been formed to acquire the engineering and cycle manufacturing business carried on for many years past by Mr William Wingfield under the style of the “Rainbow Cycle and Engineering Company” at Seaside Road, St Leonards. It described the plant as perfect, capable of turning out 500 ~ 600 cycles per annum, apart from general engineering work. Mr Wingfield’s machines had a deservedly high reputation, and there can be no doubt that was a great future for them. It was proposed to add the construction and repair of motorcars to the business, which the plant was capable of dealing with. Mr W Wingfield would act as the works manager. As a further incentive to subscribers the article continued to point out how convenient it was to be able to buy a first class machine and have it repaired locally in ones own town. The article finishes off by saying that the company hoped to secure central premises for the display and sale of their machines. Altogether, bearing in mind the current boom in cycles and the probable demand for motorcar, the opportunity must be regarded as very inviting to those seeking for a profitable investment. The list of application closes on November 28th 1897.

During the 1890s William’s brother Walter Wingfield was a member of the Hastings and St Leonards Cycling Club, and his name appears frequently in the early records of these two organisations. Contacting Chris Parker, a present day member of the HCC, I was fortunate to have the book, “Eighty Years Awheel” written by Jack Southerden brought to my attention. Whilst most of the clubs activities revolved around racing both road and field, (some held at the Central Cricket Ground) there were several social events enjoyed by members such as a combined publicity ride from Bexhill to Hastings and back by the St Leonards and Bexhill CC in 1890. Club members also attended out of area sports activities. In 1891 members of HCC and SLCC once again joined forces, in lantern ride raising money for local hospitals. Smoking concerts were a regular feature of the clubs activities, one being held on 30th September 1891. In 1894, it was reported that the clubhouse offered outdoor and indoor games, special teas and evenings of music, singing and dancing. Members of SLCC often joined H&SLCC at the clubhouse for tea and social events. The H&SLCC produced a magazine called the “Record”, from May 1893. In the July 1898 edition of the “Record”, an article entitled “The Glorious 20th July The Meeting at the Clubhouse” Over 200 cycled there and 60 others travelled by wagonette. Tea was provided and then they moved to the sports ground for a first class programme of races. After followed a series of amusing races, including the Obstacle, Slow Race (ladies only, demonstrating great control and won by Miss Lawes) This was followed by the Potato Race and the Needle and Thread Race for ladies and gentlemen, won by Mr Furbank and Miss March. There was also an egg and spoon race. Various games were held afterwards such as cricket, tennis, quoits and an al fresco concert on the lawn. During the return journey there was a stop at the Bo Peep Arch for stragglers to catch up. Then the captain led the party along the seafront to HQ at the Castle Hotel where friends and visitors assembled to witness the homecoming of the club.

From 1894 a W Wingfield begins to appear in the records of the Club. (This is most likely to be Walter, as his photograph in cycling dress appears in the front page of Adrienne’s catalogue) That year he was winner of the one-mile local riders handicap at the Whit Monday meeting in the Central Ground. W Wingfield also came second in the one-mile open handicap. In 8th August annual race meeting held at the Central Ground, Walter came third in the one-mile open handicap. This meeting was blighted by rain, with a low attendance. The weather made the track bad and caused several spills. Apparently a heavy financial loss was incurred.

In 1895 Walter Wingfield, Newman Chennells and J Moren, all members of the club won events at three separate meetings on August Bank Holiday. Later in the year Walter won another 3-mile open cycle handicap at the “Sports at Hastings” which was attended by about 3500 even though the weather was bad. The first prize at the Club Annual race meeting on Thursday 12th September 1895 was a cycle presented by the Rainbow Cycle Works of St Leonards. Offered for the one-mile handicap open to Sussex and the Folkestone CC it was won by N Chennells (H&SLCC) The J Mastin trophy for the club 5-mile handicap was also won by N Chennells (scratch) by 5 yards, in 14 minutes 7 seconds. Walter Wingfield (50 yards) was second. Walter was also the 5th member of the successful team race. In the same year Walter also made a “sensational” time of 2 hours 41 minutes (a time which stood as a local best for many years) in a 50 mile race, “unpaced, over an out and home course from Bo Peep Railway Arch to Ringmer and back” A special medal for the best time of the season was offered by the SLCC and the “honours and record fell to Walter Wingfield”

Walter and J Hide, another member of the H&SLCC, were the only members who took part in the race meeting at Bexhill on August Bank Holiday Monday 1896. Several members were competing elsewhere. Between 7000 and 8000 people attended attesting to the popularity of cycling at this time. The races were held on a specially banked track at the cricket ground attached to the Old Manor House. Earl de la Warr offered prizes valued at £250. Walter gained third place in a one-mile amateur handicap. The clubs annual race meeting was held at the Central Ground on September 16th. With good weather and a fine number of competitors, he gained second place in three different races. He also gained the fastest time of 32 minutes and 42 seconds in a 10 miles out and home handicap road race from Cripps Corner to Udimore and back on Wednesday June 3rd. Walter again won the SLCC 50 miles competition in 2 hours and 54 minutes with Newman Chennells second and E Head third.

In the same year 1896 on November 14th an interesting report appeared in the HSLO November 21st edition entitled “Local Cyclists Amongst the Motors”, “Newman Chennells our local champion and Mr William Wingfield, another clever local cyclist were among the many cyclists who started with the motor car procession from London to Brighton. Mr Chennells was the first cyclist to arrive in Brighton after the first motorcar, driven by Mr Harry J Lawson. He presented a sorry spectacle, his garments bedecked with mud. William Wingfield was not so lucky. His machine was totally wrecked near Thornton Heath, where a horse and cart knocked him down, the wheels actually passing over him and his “bike”. After being picked up unconscious and taken to a nearby house, his injuries were attended to and he was able to continue his journey to Brighton by train.”

Walter again gained top three positions in the races of 1897 throughout the year and at the Annual Road Race organised by the club. A 2-mile open handicap the same year was won by E Stead, with Hughes second and also featured an E Wingfield in third place. This can only have been Walter and William’s brother Edward. Edward also took second in the Open Mile Club Championship at the Annual Race Meeting in a time of 2 minutes 8 seconds. William and Walter did well in the club’s short distance road handicap races. At an 11-mile event in July, Walter did an actual fastest time of 32 minutes 45 seconds and in the August 18 mile event he achieved a wining ride from scratch in 55 minutes. This race included a reference to “Walter fastest of the Wingfield brothers” and the other brother was most likely to have been Edward, as his name had recently started to appear in the Club records this year. For the third consecutive year Walter also won the SLCC 50 mile competition by 6 ½ minutes in 2 h 42 m. I was interested to note in “80 Years Awheel” that road racing was abandoned the following year because of problems from the public, Police and N C U. [3]

Walter appeared in the Whit Monday May 22nd 1899 Club sports meeting in which he rode well being the only local man in the races. He came second in the one-mile open handicap and first in the two-mile open handicap.

From 1900 onwards the Wingfield brothers disappeared from the record books and it is tempting to believe that this was about the time that both William and Walter moved to Willesden, North London. However, several of their children are registered at Hastings. Another late reference in the July 1897 edition of the “Record”, mentions that the club house was formerly opened at Hooe, where a tea and a smoking concert took place at which Mr W Wingfield acted as accompanist. Was this William or Walter? Messrs R T Watkinson, Sorrell, Holloway, Miller, W J Ockenden, Colbran and Hemmings performed songs.

In the May 1900 edition of the “Record” there appeared a photograph of a new convertible tandem, patented locally by Messrs Watts and Wingfield. “The machine has a convertible back seat, and the patent is in the converting parts, which allow the machine to appear either as a perfect model of a gentleman’s tandem or with a very elegant lady’s back seat”

James R Cruttenden January 2005

Jack Southerden completed riding 500,000 miles in 1997.

Peter Baker broke the Hastings - Eastbourne - Hastings record for a bicycle on 21 July 1983. The record had been held for thirty years by Gordon King.

 

Esther Carpenter produced a series of quarterly newsletters titled the 1066 Gazette. You can read the Autumn 1980 edition here. The cover and drawing on the back cover were done by Guy Little, and the cyclist is taken from a photograph of Maurice Carpenter riding his trike in the 1957 KCA 12 hour.

In the 1970s a Youth week was held where boys and girls went to Crystal Palace and spent a week training and being taught training methods and racing. In 1979, four members of the club went to the Youth Week. Tim Carpenter, Andrew Hillman, Dominic Windsor and Neil Mockridge

Tim Carpenter won the most aggressive rider award (a pair of racing mitts).

The end of the summer' mixed fortune being enjoyed, or rather endured, by our racing team, although from a series of D. N.S.'s, D.N.F’s, fallings off and blowing up, a few bright spots shine out. The E.S.C.A. ' 50 ' provided a few surprises for us - Maurice managed 4th place, 3rd handicap and 1st vet., Martin did a very praiseworthy 2.23.32, Tim finished with a credit able 2.29.40 and Terry did 2.31.21. In the E.S.C.A. '25' Tim deservedly won the 1st handicap with a two minute improvement to 1.8.29, with Stephen, our only other finisher, recording 1.11.15. The following week, Tim was 2nd fastest Juvenile in the K.C.A. ' 25 ' on Romney Marsh.

On the last Sunday in October, twelve people set off on our 50 in 4 trial. At the end of the madcap dash to Ringmer and back, only one person failed to report to the timekeeper within the allotted time. He was a member of 'another club', and succumbed to the siren lure of home as he rode through Sidley. Dave and Audrey even had time to partake of a. mini-banquet which they produced from their saddlebag and ate in a bus shelter. Robin Peters made one of his rare appearances, and rode round in fine style. This was David Kitching’s (" no relation" he laments), introduction to our way of club life; he and his wife Jennifer have joined us from the Hillingdon C.C., and we are very pleased to welcome them.

At our A.G.M. in mid - November, there was little change in the hierarchy. A few minutes aberration were sufficient to see Esther elected President for 1978. Martin has taken over from Dave Morris as Runs Captain, and Ron Longley and David have been added to the committee. We decided to introduce a new category of membership -· it was agreed that O.A.P' s. should pay the same reduced membership subscription as the juniors. So far, the expected hordes of senior citizens, brandishing their pension books and demanding membership have not materialised, but when word gets round, who knows what may happen!

At the moment we are all on tenterhooks for Ted Coussens, who only needs to ride just over 1,000 miles to achieve his ambition of reaching his 400,000 mile target. All being well, he should make it by spring of next year. We have seen little of John Lawrence throughout the summer, although he assures us he has been getting in the miles in the New Forest area. A long way to go for secret training rides, we thought, until he confided that he had relatives down there in the licensed victuallers trade, and they supplied the digs.

The Carpenters gave their recently acquired tandem an airing on the afternoon of the E.S.C.A. tourist trial. After one or two rather wobbly permutations had been tried, it was decided that Maurice and Esther should ride the machine to Hellingly, closely escorted by Tim and Stephen. They agreed that their journey was well worthwhile, as they demolished their share of the splendid tea provided by the Southboro' Ladies, although they felt rather shamefaced when they saw all the people who had been brave enough to start in the event in the morning.

Guy Little who celebrated his 70th birthday this year, is looking forward to next season, when he hopes to complete a hundred mile ride. Provided he can get through the winter, and given the right sort of conditions, he is confident he will succeed. Whilst tidying out his garden shed, Ernie Spray came across an article which he was able to identify as a bicycle, and he has promised that he will be in attendance on some of the more leisurely clubruns! This seems to be an ideal opportunity to thank the 'Rovers' for the hospitality they extended to us on a recent Monday evening. We are not quite in the same class as them at ping-pong, though Richard and Joanne did their best for us. We held our own at the more sedate games, and it was generally agreed to be a very jolly way of spending an evening.

As I seemed to have filled my quota of space, it remains only to wish you all a Happy Christmas and New Year. As ever,

Ragged Shorts

The 21st annual luncheon of the East Sussex Cycling Association, held at Langley, near Eastbourne, on 26th November [1967], brought together a large number of past and present associated members, and George Parsons, former editor of "Cycling", was a special guest.

Among the formalities was the presentation to the Association of the F L March memorial trophy which the club had obtained through subscriptions. [Extract from 1967 section of Jack Southerden's supplement to his book "80 Years Awheel"].

Mr Frederick March, one of the most ardent and successful cyclist Sussex has known, has died in hospital at Hastings, aged 77.

“Freddie” as he was known to generations of racing cyclists and to the thousands who knew his familiar figure on the lanes of Southern England, won his first “event at “ Tunbridge Wells in 1908.. (remaining text missing)

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Mr Frederick March, the well known Kent and Sussex veteran cyclist of 62 Mount Pleasant Road, having, died on Thursday last week. He was aged 77.

Mr March was a former active member of the Kent and Sussex Fellowship. He was a clock maker by trade.

Old cycling friends and representatives of the Hastings and St.Leonards and other cycling clubs, timekeepers and other cycling interests were among those attending the funeral at the Borough Cemetery on Wednesday.

The Rev C Champneys Burnham officiated. The mourners were Mr H March, Miss E March, Miss C March, Mr P Bliss, Mr T Harrison (representing Kent and Sussex Cylcing Fellowship), members of Hastings British Legion branch and many other friends.

The coffin was covered with the Union Jack in token of Mr March’s service in the First World War and his membership of the British Legion.

The family express their sincere thanks for kind sympathy and beautiful flowers received: also their grateful thanks to the doctors, nurses and staff of St Helen’s Hospital.

Arrangements were by H Burton & Co (Hastings) Ltd.

The riders gathered at the Ewe & Lamb pub in Wittersham on Saturday where they drank all evening and then collapsed and slept on the floor till the morning.

They were then judged and handicapped by the amount of beer they had consumed before they rode off for a circuit of the Isle of Oxney.

The landlord was so impressed he presented the event with a silver tankard. This tankard is now the property of the Fellowship of Kent and Sussex Cyclists  and is presented to the President for use during his term of office.

The time trial season is now well on its way and some of the events may seem a long way back. It is not my intention to go over the programme week by week as many accounts naturally duplicate in other notes.

The KCA 50 was held in blustery and showery weather. Roy Manser won in 2-6-6. Bob French got going very well and should have been somewhere near this time. He unfortuately punctured and sufferred a delay of 9 minutes finishing in 2-18-58. Martin Chambers recorded 2-18-29.

Seven members entered the ESCA 25 held in June. Martin Chambers was best and recorded 1-4-29. He was eight fastest. One of our regular supporters in the all round sense, Brian Kent from London, did a personal best tricycle ride of 1-9-39.

Jack Southerden was amongst members who turned out to ride in the Sussex Senior road race championships. Unfortunately non managed to finish the event. An excellent photo of Jack in uncharachteristic style appeared in the local paper by way of compensation. On the same week end Maurice Carpenter partnered by John Mansell (Worhting Excelsior) rode the tandem trike in the Colchester Tandem 30. Their time was 1-12-36.

It was a wonderful morning for the club Open 50. Hazy with a soft breeze. 95 entries were received from a wide area, establishing this event as a popular fixture in the South.

With all racing members on the start sheet, and many on holiday, marshalling was far from easy. Dennis Neeves found the stregth and stamina for the push off. I should like to mention that in addition to a mountain of other work, Fred Martin, our President motored 300 miles to make the event possible. Guy Little has requested that green sponges be barred in future. From remarks afterwards it appears that everything went well for the competitiors. All six ladies faced the starter. They were not so lucky as the wind increased later on, but they plugged unfalingly. Bob French was in good form and triumphed in 2-3-23. R Gardiner (Folkestone) and J Clements (Letchworth Velo) were second and third respectively. Pam Wells won the ladies in 2-24-47 with Jean Baker (San Fairy Ann) and Iris Stevens (Eastbourne) second and third. Brian Kent (Mephisto) won the trike secion. Veteran Ted Coussens turned up and road in his usual steady style. As he rode to the event it was quite a tidy mileage for the morning.

After the event the sky clouded and the wind increased. The left over marshalls were robbed of the much anticpated kip on Little Stone Beach. Instead we had a chilly and fitful snooze on some forlorn grass verge. Tea at Stone was enjoyed before the weary ending to a succesful day.

Our Presidets’ birthday run was belssed with the usual fne weather as on previous occasions. Whether the dates come from Old Moore’s Almanack or not they are always right. As befitting the title this was a leisurly run. Elevenses were at Chitcombe. Just past Robertsbridge we bumped into a crowd of some 50 ramblers. Lunch was al fresco at Burwash. As the pub was near the recreation ground we were able to take our drinks over and watch the local cricket match. When they adjourned for lunch the midday break was rounded of by a snooze in the hot sunshine. Tea was originally arranged for the “Abbey Hotel” Battle, but they could not take us on this occasion. “The Star” bang opposite was fortunatley able to take us at a moments notice. It was a fine tea and not since pre war have I seen so much on the table. Although we had several young people at the tea, some was left over. Many thanks, Fred from all for an excellent day. In Battle ramblers were as thick as flies. Just like the 1930’s. Life goes on.

The evening 10’s have been well supported. Rye with Jim Holland at the head have provided fine support throughout. Bob French has done some 23m. odd at times. The juniors who turn up everytime must be mentioned. Peter Miles has proved fastest so far.

The experimental photographic evening last year proved a success. By popular request another evening on a bigger scale is planned for this year. It will be held at the “Abbey Hotel”, Battle on the 25th October commencing 4-30 p.m. Tickets including buffett tea 5/6. Those who would like to compete are invited to submit not more than 4 half plate prints mounted on card with a one inch border. Anyone may also submit 4 colour slides of 35 mm size only. A film show will round of the evening.

Stan Russell.

I don’t know how this event happened, or how cyclists became involved, as the itinerary produced by Union Sportive Argenteuillais, USA, doesn’t mention cycling. It seems like we were an add on, possibly something to do with John Davies. As I lived 20 miles away, I only saw anybody from the club at weekends. As i understand it this was a cultural exchange between Hastings and Argenteuil Paris. Everything paid for. There were teams of football, judo and I think athletics, plus us bikies. The coach picked me up in Rye, it was packed plus 5 bikes up the centre isle. The bikes were loaded onto the boat, hanging by their front wheels and craned into the hold. We had a smooth crossing, John Davies and his wife offered us cake, Lynn, Martin and myself had been warned about this, so didn’t partake. Those who did were quite happy and merry. John Davies and his wife had friends in Paris, so they went to visit them. We were put up by, CSM Puteux. M & Mme Segard, of that club and became our Director Sportives. We stayed in a sort of hotel, I think that it was a brothel, a lot of coming going all night, plain concrete staircase, made a lot of noise. In the bedroom there was a wash basin and Lynn And Martins first encounter with what they thought was a French foot bath (Bidet), they hadn’t seen one before, I had encountered Bidets in 1961 when I went and watched 3 stages of The Tour de France. As I was an electrician, the wiring shook me in the toilets, no door handle just a sliding bolt to close the door, only thing was, one wire went to the bolt and another wire to the fastening catch, slide the bolt and the light came on. It meant that the bolt and its fastening were very much LIVE.

A club rider took us to restaurants and cafes to get us feed and took us for rides about the area, the cafes were a bit crude, the toilets were holes in the floor with two footprints on where to place your feet. While we were riding around two things happened, one people would call out BAA BAA, it was Maurices beard, now there are a lot of bearded cyclists, then none. The other thing we kept getting, was there were a lot of mopeds about and as they passed, they would offer their back wheel to give us pace. Our club rider (I never found out his name) informed us that there was only one race that weekend and it was one of the selection races for the Tour de L’Avenir.

The race was in Puteux 80km, 4k lap, 20 laps. 1k up smooth tarmac, the finish would be at the top of this hill, with fast bends at the top with polished cobbles, 1k down rough cobbles at the bottom leading into a sharp narrow 90-degree bend and a very narrow-cobbled road, the rest was flat back to the start. At the signing on as in this country you hand over your licence, Maurice only had a CTC membership card, which he handed over, alongside the signing on official was a chap typing a stencil of the riders names, he printed out the start list of all the riders and was handing them out to the press and public. There were 115 riders, we were used to a maximum of 40. We were all called to the start in club and nation order, so when the race started we were near the front. The start was a rush up the hill and a mad rush down the hill to the narrow bend, it was so tight, the rider on my left lent on me, I lent on the rider to my right and round the bend we went, I never touched my brakes and of to the start of the next lap, after a few laps of this, I realised I was getting shoved back. So I put the pressure on up the hill to keep my place near the front. Maurice and Martin didn’t last long as they said the road was so rough it was shaking everything on their bikes loose, as to John tummy trouble so he said. Lynn dropped out about the time I crashed. On the fourteenth lap six riders made a gap, I went after them up the hill and on the fifteenth lap, over the top there was a bend, which I took much to fast, bang crash that was it, bent wheel when riders behind me rode over my back the wheel broken spokes and bent rim meant. End of race.

Now because we were racing, we missed our coach. M Segard our D.S. grabbed a motorcycle policeman, put me and my bike in his car. Police motorcycle up front, blue light flashing, M Sager car followed by Lynn, Martin and Maurice on their bikes took off, though red traffic lights, overtaking traffic to the Gare d Nore train station, bundling us onto the train, which left as we got on. On the trip to the port we passed our coach, and were able to wave to them. Meeting them to get on the boat together, our bikes were left behind in the rush. We got them back a week later.

Bob French

(Please note this file is 109Mb)

Our President’s Opening Run was held at the beginning of March, on a glorious day, which probably encouraged such a large number of members to attend. In fact, the largest club run for several years made its way to Ashburnham, collecting refugees from Eastbourne Rovers en route.

The gathering was enlivened by the sight of Arthur drinking his his after lunch tea from a pint sized earthenware mug, apparently without either sugar or milk. Members who went home in the afternoon were treated to the spectacle of a well-known St. Leonards cycle dealer being unable to repair a puncture in his tyre, and having to substitute a new tube for the punctured one.

The next function which appeared to be attended en masse by the male members of the club (so complained two disgusted females who had bee riding around on their tod all day), was the Fellowship of Kent and Sussex Luncheon.

Cecil’s friends were saddened to hear rumours that the waitress at the George, Cranbrook, has sued him for breach of promise since this lunch.

10 members started out on the 100 in 8 run recently 8 of whom finished, 2 getting mislaid en route when the three tandems decided to have a burn up with a moped on the outward journey. Red Coussens was once again the first finisher, despite being attacked from the rear by a motorist in Sidley, and suffering shock and abrasions.

Meanwhile, amid this frenzy of social activity, our racing men have to been idle. David was a shock winner of our first 25, with a personal best time of 1.5.16. from Bob and Lyn. A week or two later David, Bob and Lyn won the E.S.C.A. Team Time Trial. David then went on to win the Junior 15 with an event record time of 38.42. Clive Davies recorded a time of 40.21 in the same event at his first try at racing. On the same day Jack became the first winner of the new trophy presented for the Rye-Hythe-Rye event. Since then Bob appears to have regained his form with personal bests 25 times of 1.2.29 in the Canterbury 25, and a 50 of 2.12.1 in the KCA event. Lyn and Martin both did personal bests in this latter event, with 2.17.34 and 2.21.21 respectively. In the evening 20 events David has managed a third personal best tome of 25.26. However, Bob is the fastest over this distance at the moment, with a time of 24.18 to his credit. Lyn has been trying hard in these events and has also managed to beat his previous best time.

With the sad thought that the only remaining social events are the Whitsun All Night Run and the Crazy Golf Competition with the Southborough Wheelers, I conclude these notes.

Bacchus.

Well-known cyclist, and president of the Hastings and St Leonards Cycling and Athletic Club. Mr Perry Bliss, Mount Pleasant-road received leg injury when was involved collision with lorry at Hawkhurst on Friday last week
He was taken to the Royal East Sussex Hospital and detained and yesterday it was stated that his condition was satisfactory.
In the accident, which occurred the Talbot-road junction on the Hawkhurst- Hastings road at Moor Hill, the lorry driver, Mr B Spice, of Station-road. Hawkhurst. was uninjured.

Hastings and St. Leonards Cycling Club's main run on Sunday was led by May (vice-captain) who chose a route through Brede. Crlpps Corner Northiam and Sandhurst to reach Hawkhurst. After lunch there the run went to Burwash and Heathfleld.

The club tea was Ashburnham. where a number of members spent much of the day the annual meeting of the East Sussex Cycling Association. Tomorrow members meet at the Harrow 9.30 a.m. for a mystery run. Tea will Whatllngton

ADVANTAGES of the time trial over massed start bicycle racing were stressed Mr. J. Spackman, of the Century Road Club, when he proposed the main toast at the 82nd annual dinner, prize presentation and dance of the Hastings and St. Leonards Cycling and Athletic Club at the Castle Hotel on Saturday.

Mr. Spackman said that in massed start racing the top riders were reaching a much higher peak of performance than ever before. This meant that fewer riders would reach the top. and that lota of other riders would never reach the top. But in time trials they could “have a go" and get a lot of fun out of It, even they were not near the top men.

“In, massed start racing unless you are near the top men you have drop out." said Mr, Spackman. “You cannot carry on riding slowly."

Recalling that the club was founded 1876, Mr. Spackman told the large company, which Included visitors from many other clubs at Rye, Eastbourne. Southborough. Sittingbourne. the Medway Towns, Dartford. and elsewhere, that Hastings was among the earliest of cycling clubs. Their first dinner was held In February. 1878. and later that year three members competed in an open event.

FORTUNES REVIVED

In 1881 It was decided to bar trlcyclists. but a year later they were again permitted to Join the club, and the following year a special event was run for them. In 1885 the father of Freddy March. Tolly March, led revival the club's flagging fortunes by securing the first away win. In 1886 Archie Stokes won the home trainer championship of the world, and 1898 saw the club's first hill climb. In 1898 road racing was abandoned under ruling of the National Cyclists' Union, due to police action.

In 1900 Tolly March claimed the 24 hour record, in an unofficial ride done privately, of 220 miles 21¾ hours. 1909 track racing was resumed, time trials were started, and Freddy March made his debut. In 1911 the club saluted the past by organising two ordinary bicycle races. The athletic section was formed in 1913 and survived until 1950-51.

During the 1914-18 war the club remained alive and after the war Freddy March won a number of N.C.U. Sussex championships. The year 1924 saw a new star in the firmament, and George Jenkins won successes on road and track.

During the last war the club still kept going, but on a reduced scale, and the man responsible was Percy Bliss.

Mr. Spackman paid a tribute to Jack Southerden. the club historian, who was writing their history after a successful racing career.

Mr J H Southerden, responding said: “We have seen another year added to the club’s long life and the purpose of this diner is to celebrate our progress. As a cub gets older the past becomes more interesting and more important. May of us are very proud of the past, and 1957 has been a good year, with regular Sunday and Wednesday runs, and with a good i programme of time trialling and many evening events."

Mr. Southerden dealt with the' highlights of the past racing season, and said that Maurice Carpenter had done It again by winning the majority of senior events, and the club championship for the second year In succession. P. Adams had set up a new club record 392.1645 miles In 24 hours.

Speaking of the women's section. he said that Esther Rolleston had made new club records at 25 and 100 miles and for 12 hours.

Mr. Percy Bliss, the president, who was the chair, proposed the toast of the visitors and especially' welcomed those from other clubs.

Mr. W. T. Collins (Eastbourne Rovers), responding, told Mr. Bliss:
“You and your club act as a magnet which draws us to this dinner year by year, where find good fellowship and good sportsmanship - a tradition which has been built up over the years. We wish the club continued success In the field of sport this wonderful pastime ours."

Mr. E. C. Harrison, of the Medway Road Club, also responded In a humorous speech.

Mr. E. C. Southcot, a former president of the N.C.U., spoke on his reminiscences of cycling racing at the Olympic Games past years.

Dinner was followed by dancing. with Mr. W. Baker as M.C.

The president presented the awards follows:—
Best clubman, M. Lingham.
10 miles gears under 63in., M. Carpenter. 27mln. 41 secs;
10 miles. Junior Powell Shield. L. Chambers. 26mln. 52sec;
15 miles. Junior Trophy. D. Page. 47min 3sec;
25 miles. April 25. M. Carpenter. 1hr 8mln. 25sec;
25 miles, Ron Eastes Memorial. M. Carpenter. 1hr 4mln. 54sec.;
25 miles, September 25. A. Moorhouse. 1hr. 3mln. 51sec.;
30 miles, M. Carpenter. 1hr. 21min. 45sec
50 miles, Croft Trophy, A. Moorhouse, 2hr. 13 min. 45sec.
100 miles trophy. M. Carpenter, 4hr. 54mln. 32sec.;
12 hour. P. Bliss Trophy, M. Carpenter. 221.412 mile, won outright;
24 hours, P. Adam. 392.1645 mile;
Rye-Hythe-Rye, M, Carpenter. 1hr. 52min. 39sec.;
Speed Judging. L. Chambers;
Hill Climb. A. Moorhouse 2min. 57 2-sec.;
Christmas Day 10 mile. M. Carpenter. 28min. 31sec.;
B.A.R. F. Martin Trophy. M. Carpenter, 21.114 m.p.h.

A good 50 miles ride 2hr. 11mln. 47sec. by B. Kemp, the Hastings and St. Leonards Cycling and Athletic Club, gave him second place in the E.S.C.A. trial on Sunday. Another member, M. Carpenter, took first handicap place with improved ride of 2hr. 17min. 45sec. J. Southerden lost half minute the start and returned 2hr. 19min. 27sec. J. Adams, of Lewes, was surprise winner in 2hr. 10min. 51sec. The club run was Mayfield and Frant, with tea at Hawkhurst.
Tomorrow’s run leaves the King’s Head, Ore, 6 a.m. Tea is Hothfield, near Ashford.

Three members the Hastings and St. Leonards Cycling and Athletic Club set off in the wet and windy conditions on Sunday to ride for 12 hours over Kent roads in a K.C.A. and club trial. B. Kemp retired after covering about 100 miles; R, Downey was soon in trouble with his change gear, but carried on, using only one of the four, to cover about 216 miles; and J. Southerden, delayed twice with punctures, ran out time after about 217 miles.
Tomorrow’s run leaves the King’s Head, Ore, at 6 a.m. Tea at Hawkhurst.

At the Tunbridge Wells A.C.C.’s track meeting last week Terry Baldwin of the Hastings and St. Leonards Cycling and Athletic Club, rode well in good company and won two of the three open events — the 440 yards and 880 yards handicaps.

On Sunday the club’s 100 miles trial was held In conjunction with the E.S.C.A. event and won by J.Southerden, whose time of 4hr. 47 min. 32sec. gave him fourth place and third handicap in the East Sussex trial. B. Kemp was second 4hr. 49min. 23sec., and R. Downey. 5hr. 49min. 15sec., was third. Fastest was C. Robson (Eastbourne), with a new event record of 4hr. 38mln. 12sec.

Tomorrow, members meet at the King’s Head, Ore. at 5.30 a.m. Tea will be at Brookland

There were over 2,000 people and about 200 competitors at a “Sports Festival” organized by Hastings Warrior C.C. at the Central Ground on Saturday, August 18th.
The main cycle races included the final of the East Sussex individual pursuit Championship, which was won by A. Moorhouse (Club); a 500 metres scratch, won by H. Cooper, Kentish W.; a one mile open handicap, won by W. Lane, Fountain C.C.; and a 5 miles scratch, won by W. Waters, S. London R.C. T. Baldwin (Club), third in the one mile handicap, was the only local rider to win a prize in the open cycle events.

CYCLISTS from over South-East England rode Into the town last Saturday the guests of the Hastings and St. Leonards Cycling and Athletic Club, at their annual dinner at the Regent Hotel. Now entering its 75th year of operation, the club is one of the oldest cycling clubs In the country.

The visitors were from Tunbridge Wells,. Catford. Rye, the Medway Towns. Uckfield, Eastbourne. Bexhill and Welwyn. Welwyn Wheelers had the longest ride to the event 90 miles.

Guests of honour were Ken Joy, Medway Wheelers Cycling Club, British Best All-Rounder Competition winner in 1949, and holder of the R.R A. London to Brighton and back record, which he took last year: his clubmate. Peter Beardsmore, third in the B.B A.R competition, 1949, and winner in 1948: B W. Best, well known cycling journalist, timekeeper and administrator: A.E.C Harrison Medway Road Club and Tricycle Association, noted cycling official Roy Humphrey, Eastbourne Rovers Cycling and Athletic Club great enthusiast and worker for the sport in Sussex; and Councillor E A Tester. vice-president of the club and an old member and official.

Proposing the toast of the club Mr F.L. March who joined it in 1900 paid tribute to the president Mr Percy Bliss who was in hospital. With all his afflictions he was “the man with always a smile on his face”

Mr March recalled the history of the club. Its successes in county championships and the triumph of Mr George Jenkins; who is still a member, when he twice won the Bath Road Memorial 50, competed for by the selected 12 best road cyclists of the year, and represented the country abroad.

Mr J.H.Southerden proposing the toast of the guests said that the club was fortunate in having present so many prominent persons in the world of sport.

Responding, Mr Joy said that in the past the club had had great men in its ranks who had ridden with success under its name, and he mentioned Mr. George Jenkins. “ We should like to see more of your men In the big open events today.” said Mr. Joy. “but to do that you need more competitive events in this area. You have the talent and you have the experienced men to encourage you.”

Mr Harrison said that the Hastings C. and A.C. typified the spirit of the sport to which they all belonged. He wished the club every and appealed for more club men from East Sussex to join the Fellowship of Kent and Sussex Cyclists.

Mr. Best said that It was a great thing to have attained so many years of continuous life as a club, and he suggested that a yearly reunion of the club and the one or two others who were as old would become a great occasion in cycling history.

Paying tribute to Mr Jenkins, Mr Best said that the cyclists were now looking to Hastings to produce another like him.

Mr A. Freeman spoke on behalf of the athletes among the gathering.

Mr K. D. Rome, proposing the toast of the president, wished him a speedy and complete recovery. He was, said Mr Rome, one of the stalwarts of club life, and his assistance had been appreciated by many young members starting racing.

Councillor Tester, who responded for the President, said that it was an honour for the club to have so many distinguished visitors. Cycling was a great sport, and it was one of the few left today where members were not spoon-fed. In road racing especially everything had to be done by the competitors themselves, and that was true sport.

The prizes were presented by Ken Joy. Winner of the club best all rounder competition was J.H. Southerden (for the third time in succession), who has now made the Blackman Trophy his own. Second in the competition was R.F.Powell.

Other prize winners were :-
Cyclists –
10 miles (63in gear) J.H.Southerden:
10 miles P Hughes:
25 miles. P Hughes:
Rye-Hythe-Rye. [Rye Hythe Rye] J H Southerden:
Junior invitation 15 miles, E Jones (Bexhill Wheelers):
Tandem 30 miles, R Eastes [Ron Eastes Trophy] and P Adams:
10 miles’ junior championship
A Moorhouse:
evening 10 miles,P Adams.
30 miles. J H Southerden:
50 miles. J H Southerden
100 miles. J H Southerden:
12 hours. R F Powell:
25 miles. P Adams:
25 miles. J H Southerden.
Hill climb J H Southerden

Mr. James (“Jimmy”) Moren, one of Hastings crack cyclists at the end of the last century, died at the Royal East Sussex Hospital on Saturday [15 August 1941], at the age of 76.

Brought up in the grocery business. he worked for his father in Bohemia Road after leaving school. He then changed his occupation, and his exceptional interest In cycle racing coincided with his employment with Mr. George Jenkins in his cycle business. Later he returned to his old trade and opened grocery business in Southwater road where he remained for very many years.

As a racing cyclist. Mr Moren made his bow to the public In 1884 at Bank Holiday athletics meeting at the Central Ground at Hastings. where mounted on a 52 inch ordinary he gained first place In an open race. A year later he created something of sensation locally initiating the " 100 miles road record." He accomplished the 100 miles in the then phenomenal time of 11 hours 47 minutes, and for this feat the Hastings and St. Leonards Bicycle and Tricycle Club, of which he was a member, presented him with a silver medal. The 100 miles record became very popular with local cyclists, but Mr Moren monopolised the honours until 1892, in which year he covered the distance In 7 hours 3 minutes.

During his career Mr. Moren frequently rode up the Castle Hill, and was the first to attempt the slope from Wellington-Square to the West Hill to the terminus the lift.

In 1899. when he was honoured with the captaincy of the local Cycling Club, he was described "the most brilliant handicap rider In Hastings." His speciality was long distance riding, and on several occasions he won the Mastin Challenge Cup—of which he became permanent holder—starting from scratch and conceding starts up to 450 yards.

Up to 1900 Mr. Moren had competed in over 300 races, and won 107 prizes. He was connected with the local Cycling Club for many years, and was one of its oldest members, if not the oldest. He frequently arranged dances in aid the club, and was himself a keen dancer.

As a member of the local volunteer force of cyclists he rode at the great Military Exhibition held at Chelsea. The race was open to all England and only missed being first in the final by inches. The 62 competitors included the leading cycling stars of the Kingdom.

In addition to cycling, Mr Moren was very fond of sea and river fishing, and was also a keen gardener. He was a member of the Bohemia Conservative Club for many years.

On retiring from business. Mr Moren and his daughter went to live at 97 Battle Road, St. Leonards.

The funeral took place on Thursday at the Borough Cemetery, the Rev. John Daniel, minister of Chapel Park Road Baptist Church, St. Leonards, officiating.

The immediate mourners were Miss W. Moren (daughter). Mr. and Mrs. Hodges. Mrs. Upton, Mr. and Mrs. G. H. Brooker, Miss Wallis, Mrs. Dann. Mrs. Busbridge. Miss Hewlett. Mr. Baker; Mrs. Mlddleton (friends).

Floral tributes were received as follows: —Wreath. From the daughter: Mr. and Mrs. Berryman and family: Arthur Loynes (Canterbury): Eva Hicks (Tonbrldge): Mr. and Mrs. Upton and Kath; Mr. and Mrs. W. Baker: Miss O'Dell and L N.; All at 95, Battle-road; Battle Road Fire Watchers. Section 4; Miss Hewlett; Mr. and Mrs. S. Watman: From fellow gardener; Catherine: Mr. and Mrs. G. H. Brooker.

Miss Moren desires to thank all those who sent messages of sympathy and floral tributes in her sad bereavement.

The funeral directors were Douglas C. Mercer and Son. Silverhill. St. Leonards.