Tribute cycling bursary set up to help young riders

Young cyclists are set to benefit from an initiate set up in memory of a charity's former chief executive who died earlier this year.

The Chris Boulton Cycling Bursary has been established by the Greenham Trust to support riders aged between 18 and 25 from west Berkshire and north Hampshire.

Thatcham Town Council said Boulton, who died in January, "inspired countless people to enjoy and excel in cycling".

The annual bursary, worth £1,500, will be awarded to a young cyclist who demonstrates "long-term potential, a strong commitment to the sport, and a positive contribution to the cycling community".

The council said the bursary was a "fitting tribute to his enduring legacy".

"Mr Boulton was an accomplished cyclist, coach and organiser of cycling events for riders of all ages and abilities, both in the UK and overseas," it added.

The successful bursary applicant will receive financial support for equipment or towards an approved coaching programme or elite training course.

Boulton had been chief executive of the Greenham Trust since 2014 and had been involved in projects including the transformation of Greenham Business Park and had chaired the West Berkshire Covid Response Group.

Following his death in January, the trust paid tribute to his "innovative ideas, energy, and unwavering commitment to creating opportunities for others".