RAYMOND HUTCHINSON (1930-1951)

We have a selection of photos from the late 1940s and early 1950s which show Raymond Hutchinson and friends, members of Bishop Auckland Cycling Club.  They have been kindly loaned to ER&DHS by Raymond’s sister, Joyce Robson (nee Hutchinson).

CYCLING IN THE GAUNLESS VALLEY

There is some evidence of a history of cycling in the local area. 

1. 1921 Kelly’s Directory:  Wade Emmerson is recorded as a “cycle dealer,” the inference being that even in a small village like Evenwood there was demand for a specialist service such as a cycle dealer.

Above:  An extract from the 1921 Kelly’s Directory

2) Cockfield, the shop keeper, William Everitt is advertised as, “cycle agent and repairer.”

Above: Cockfield, outside Wm. Everitt’s shop:  Possibly 1911, the Coronation (Union flags), shows a group of 13 cyclists.

RAYMOND HUTCHINSON & FRIENDS

Raymond was the son of Fred and “Nan” Hutchinson, brother to Arthur and Joyce.  The family lived at Jubilee Terrace, Evenwood.  He was born in 1930, attended school at Evenwood and worked at Wilson’s Forge, Bishop Auckland as a welder.  He cycled to work and often over to Hunwick for piano lessons.  He was tragically killed in a motor traffic accident at Evenwood Gate in June 1951, 5 weeks short of his 21st birthday.

Above: Date: 24 May 1941, Wilson’s Forge, Bishop Auckland, Raymond Hutchinson is front left.

Above: Raymond Hutchinson in front of Jubilee Terrace, Evenwood.

Above: Raymond at the back of his home with Randolph Coke Works in the background.

The following photos date from the late 1940s to mid-1951 and show Raymond and his friends “out and about” on their bikes.

Above:  Friends at the Tan Hill pub, North Yorkshire.  Raymond probably took the photo.

Above: Probably Copley, at the junction opposite the Three Horse Shoes pub.

Above:  Raymond Hutchinson at the front, Denis Clarkson above the sign and Lawrence (surname unknown) on the bike, along the Woodland to Eggleston road.

Above: Location unknown.  Raymond, Denis and Lawrence.  The person at the front, on the bike is unknown.

Above: Three keen cyclists – Raymond, front right, Lawrence left and Denis centre.

Above:  Date & location unknown:  Three photos which capture a cycling event.