British Cycling chair Frank Slevin has paid tribute to Len Unwin, a former secretary of the federation, who passed away over Christmas at the age of 87.

Len served as secretary of British Cycling from 1964 to 1995 and was also a dedicated member of The Pedal Club throughout his life.

He received the British Cycling Gold Badge of Honour in 1995.

Paying tribute Slevin said:

“British Cycling wouldn’t be in the great position it is in today without the hard work of people like Len Unwin.

“His tireless efforts during his 31 year spell at the organisation were hugely appreciated and he served British Cycling and its membership well through a period of great change.

“He will undoubtedly be sorely missed by the cycling community and I would like to pass the sincere condolences of everyone at British Cycling to his family and friends. The cycling community is poorer without him.”

Ian Emmerson OBE, who was British Cycling president from 1985-1995, also paid tribute to Len:

“During my time working with Len I always found him to be very enthusiastic, an excellent administrator and a great negotiator, which we needed in the time before Lottery Funding. 

“The real turning point in the history of British Cycling was the building of the velodrome in Manchester and Len played a key role in the planning and execution of this huge project.

“Len was a stalwart of British Cycling.”

Len’s funeral will be held on 26 January at the Worthing Crematorium in Findon followed by refreshments at Findon Manor.