Beryl Burton: In Search of Britain's Greatest Athlete
102 Leeds Road, Methley, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS26 9EP
Join us at RiversMeet tearooms based in Methley, a venue known by cyclists and on the route that Beryl used for training.
Born in Leeds, Beryl combined working on a rhubarb farm in Morley with becoming one of the greatest cyclists of all time.
Beryl was practically invincible for several decades, finishing as Best All-Rounder for 25 consecutive years and setting a world record in 1967 for the distance covered in 12 hours that also beat the men's record. Despite her strictly amateur status, she also won multiple world titles against opposition that included state-sponsored rivals from Eastern Bloc nations. She regularly beat the best men and – infamously – even competed against her daughter Denise. Her motivation, sparked by appalling childhood illness, is as fascinating as her achievements are stunning. Jeremy's biography of Beryl Burton was recently named Sports Book of the Year and, together with Denise, they will reveal the incredible true story behind a local hero.
Guests are welcome to visit the tearoom before or after for refreshments.
Please note the talk is in an upstairs room and there is no lift to this space. If you have accessibility needs please contact us directly to discuss.
102 Leeds Road, Methley, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS26 9EP
The tearoom is accessible, however the talk is in an upstairs room and has no lift. If you would like to attend this talk but are unable to go up stairs please contact us directly to discuss.