Maurice Burton signed his Golden Book page.

It is hard to know where to start when discussing Maurice’s unusual but distinguished career. In a nutshell he came from a non-cycling and non-privileged background and achieved success at the highest level of the Belgian track scene. This wasn’t just hard from the athletic point of view since it also involved acclimatising to a new country and mastering the Flemish language. Since his riding career he has made a success of De Ver Cycles in Streatham, another significant achievement given the violent ups and downs of the bike trade in recent decades. We all hope that he will be an important player in the success of the John Barclay Academy, where his Belgian contacts and Flemish language will be invaluable.

There is no need to say more here as those who are interested can read his newly published autobiography,“The Maurice Burton Way”, which gives a very readable account of an exceptional life.

The lunch was held at the Civil Service Club, Great Scotland Yard and attracted thirty six members and guests.

Chris Lovibond (May 2024)