Not exactly TT related - although he did co-own the 1923 TT-winning Freddie Dixon banking sidecar, my very good friend Bob Thomas of Milntown, near Ramsey, passed away on Thursday. Bob's interest in bikes was legion, and every was most welcome at his house. For many years I rode (rather 'aimed') his 1931 fore-and-aft trials Douglas at the Talmag and other trials. I know Don and others viewed his collection of bikes at this years TT.

What very sad news. He was very frail at Manx time having just returned home from hospital
but he still received us like the true gentleman he was.

" Oh, if you did delight no more to stay
Upon this low and earthly stage,
But rather chose an endless heritage,
Tell us at least, we pray,
Where all the beauties that those ashes ow'd
Are now bestow'd?"

Lord Herbert of Cherbury