30/06/2022
RIP John Taylor
1943-2022
It is with Great Sadness that we announce the death of John Taylor. Husband of Liz and father to Lynne & Mike. John had been involved in Cycling from his early teens. A long distance time-triallist at heart he lived for 24 hour racing and RRA (Place to Place) records. John started Bridgtown Cycles in the Early 80’s and has been the guy that sold so many people their 1st ever bike (as well as many more bikes afterwards). He was always charming and free with his advice, he loved to help people and was an advocate for Time Trialling, Cycling in general and specifically for Women in the sport of cycling. His inspiration led both of his children to race and Lynne through hard work, determination and the support of her father become the greatest long distance rider of her generation only losing her Lands End to John O’Groats record last year after holding it for the previous 20 years. Lynne still retains the 1000 Mile record. John was always excited by new developments in cycling technology and training methodology and nutrition. He had a thirst for knowledge right up to his last days. I recall with a smile when the very first mountain bike available in the UK was put in the shop window. The debate it created, the questions that where asked and the shaking of the heads that pronounced Dad had gone mad and would have to give it away as no one would ever buy one……….How wrong they were and how right he was.
When John retired from the Shop and his son Mike took over he didn’t rest on his Laurels. An avid cycling Historian John undertook the task of documenting the history of Lands End to John O’Groats record breaking and the history of 24 hour Time trialling. He wanted very much to get the stories and anecdotes down about these iconic events and the heroic riders before they were lost to time. John was the font of knowledge with regards to the End to End and has been integral in many successful attempts helping design the route, advise on approach and all aspects of such an epic undertaking. He has worked tirelessly as a member of the RRA Committee as well as the CTT and 24 hour fellowship, often acting as a catalyst for positive change and equality. John also undertook to write the 24 Hour fellowship Journal. A mixture of historical cycling essays, interviews and reviews of modern day superstars, a celebration of those that commit their time and energies to put on such amazing events and occasionally a controversial topic or two just to stimulate the grey cells and open up debate.
John passed the final timekeeper and handed in his number on Saturday 25th June 2022 at 9.50pm. Liz, Lynne and Mike were by his side.
Please feel free to share your memories of John as we celebrate his life.
The date of the Funeral is Thursday 21st July - If you would like to attend, please contact the store on 01922 411180 where we will pass on the details.
