TIME TRIALLING MOURNS DEATH OF PETER WALTHALL, FORMER RTTC CHAIRMAN

Peter Walthall, circuit judge, lawyer, member of the Masonic lodge and former chairman of the Road Time Trials Council (RTTC - now Cycling Time Trials) has died at the age of 74.

He suffered a heart attack on February 16, at his home in Oldham, Lancashire.

Walthall was RTTC chairman from 1976 to 1983 and retired because of ill health. He nevertheless remained a member of the Appeals Panel until his death.

?His contribution to the sport was vast, particularly in his role as the Council?s Solicitor, marrying his talent as a lawyer with his intimate knowledge and understanding of the sport,? says Phil Heaton, Cycling Time Trials national secretary.

He will be remembered also for his integrity and great sense of humour, Heaton added.

Walthall was also chairman of the Manchester District Committee from 1973 to 1981, and a member of the Manchester Wheelers and Altrincham Ravens CC.

He enjoyed a fair turn of speed, too, clocking an impressive 21-minute ?10?, four sub-55-minute 25?s and a 1-52 for 50 miles, all without the advantages of tri-bars or skinsuits. He also enjoyed a passion for touring and youth hostelling.

?Peter was a regular advocate in the courts for cyclists pursuing compensation claims and he was a tremendous support, not just in the actual legal details but also in the trauma of such cases,? said Heaton.

?Many of his clients became personal friends keeping in touch with him for many years after their cases were settle.?

He leaves a wife Carole, children Justin and Sarah and two young grandchildren. A memorial service will be held at a date, yet to be arranged.