About the Author – Tour de Lille and Tour de France 2025
Join us in celebrating the world’s greatest cycling race Discover Our StoriesBonjour! I live in Templeuve-en-Pévèle, just south of Lille, and teach English at various colleges, universities and companies in and around Lille.
Early Life and Cycling Career
Raised in the North East, I started racing in my mid-teens. Riding criteriums at places like Thornaby Trading Estate, Hartlepool and Seaburn. I raced as a junior and senior, riding against the likes of Kevin Byers, Paul Curran, Paul Donohue, and Mike Milen. And many other well known north eastern riders.
Career in Cycling Media
I started in media at the Daily Mirror in 1986 and, after editing Cycle Trader and Bicycle Action magazines, was appointed editor of Cycling Weekly in January 1991. Rising to Editor-in-chief, I led the team that launched Cycle Sport and Mountain Bike Rider (MBR) magazines and won the prestigious BSME editor of the year award three times for my work on Cycling Weekly.
Launching Procycling and Other Magazines
After leaving ipc Magazines, I set up Cabal Communications and launched a number of successful magazines including Procycling.
Working in Tourism and Education in France
In recent years I have worked in the tourism sector and now work for a number of French companies providing marketing support. And teach English at the Catholic University of Lille, various business colleges and the world’s leading yeast manufacturer and food science research company, Lesaffre International.
A Passion for Cycling Events
After many years of getting my cycling kicks from inside helicopters, from team cars and lead cars, riding pillion on motorbikes, from the press centres of the major events, I’m now happy standing by the roadside, with a beer, and cheering on the riders as they pass through Templeuve for Paris-Roubaix, or in July at Le Tour!
Hopefully I’ll meet a few of you in Lille in a few weeks time!
Why This Website Exists
This website is simply my attempt to make your visit more productive and enjoyable.
Support the Author
But if anyone wants to buy me a coffee/beer, please feel free!
With a certain Mr Merckx at the Anaheim Bike Show
Climbing with Bjarne Riis at one of Cycling Weekly’s Lanzarote training camps
Sean Kelly at the Tour of Britain in 1988
DISCOVER LILLE
Lille, the vibrant capital of Flanders, is known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and welcoming atmosphere. Explore the charming old town, indulge in delicious French cuisine, and experience a unique mix of French and Flemish cultures.
Culture and History
Bars and Cafes
Dining
Shopping
Vieux Lille
