The club recently received news of the death of club member Roger Shayes. Roger was a tireless servant of the Beacon and the wider cycling community, who helped a lot of young riders in the early stages of their careers. Here’s a short tribute to Roger, written by Dave Hughes:

Yesterday, Margaret Shayes phoned me to let me know that Roger had passed away peacefully.

Roger was a long-standing and loyal club member for over 60 years. During that time, he contributed to both the racing and administrative side of the club. It would be fair to say that he was one of the most colourful characters in the club’s history.

Roger’s first passion was track racing but this was closely followed by the intricacies of committees! He worked tirelessly for the club, being the British Cycling Federation (now British Cycling) representative for many of those 60 years. Amongst other duties, he also served as our club Chairman and organised the club’s annual awards dinner for many years.

Outside the club, Roger served in the higher echelons of British Cycling, being a BC official time-keeper and judge, commentator and local personality – his distinctive bowler hat and ponytail being instantly recognisable to cyclists across the country.

My personal recollections are of a man who gave generously of his time. He fired many a young rider with highly enthusiastic tales of derring-do and junior squad race meetings with Roger were followed by us rushing back home on our bikes at higher than safe speeds whilst winning imaginary, nail-biting sprint finishes.

Roger enjoyed life to the full and will be sadly missed by those that knew him well. On behalf of the club, our condolences to family and friends.

Rest in peace Roger.

Dave Hughes, 30 September 2024

We will share details of Roger’s funeral when they are available.