| 10 June 2011 Eamonn Deane writes … More than
300 mourners packed into the chapel at Poole
Crematorium to pay their last respects to Rob
Jeffries, who was killed in a road traffic accident
two weeks ago.
Members of Poole Wheelers rode slowly behind the
hearse as it carried Rob’s body the final few
hundred yards to the crematorium. The coffin was
draped in jerseys from all of Rob’s previous clubs
and lapel pins were handed out, made from one of
Rob’s old chains, by stepson George.
Daughter Eve spoke bravely of her father, failing
to hold back the tears. Robs older brother, Will
also shared his tears with the congregation. In a
very moving eulogy, Will recalled insignificant
phone calls with Rob, that now mean so much “as the
phone does not ring anymore”. The humanist ceremony
drew to a close with the words” To the Freedom of
wind and sunshine, we let you go”
A fund has been set up in Rob’s memory to
encourage young riders. Donations can be made to
Poole WHS/ Robs Velo Youth Fund
C/O James Smith FD
60a Kings Road
Swanage
Dorset
BH 19 1HR
Rob Jefferies was killed on
Thursday 26 May 2011 whilst cycling. He was with his mate Brycey who
stated:
Last night I was out training with
Big Rob down in Wareham, Dorset. After we'd
finished our session we were riding home along a
wide road whereby a car came from behind just
missing me but hit Rob from behind. Both myself,
an off duty fireman and paramedics did what we
could but sadly Rob died at the scene. We were
both riding inside the hard shoulder right over
on the left. The driver allegedly never saw us.
The police investigation is ongoing.
Rob was helping me train for the national
masters champs next month. We were both due to
compete there. He was never short of enthusiasm
for his cycling and was a fine time triallist
racing for Poole Wheelers and an exceptional
track racer. Some of the forum may also know him
from his pursuit meeting he organised two years
ago at Herne Hill. He was 43 with a family.
My condolences go to his family. An
absolute tragedy.
|
Dear
all
