CHAMPION cyclist Brian Robinson has already made his mark on the famous Tour De France, winning a stage in the 1950s.
Now more than 50 years on he has literally ‘stamped’ his authority for the first time.
The Mirfield man, who won a stage of the epic race in 1958, is one of eight legendary cyclists honoured by the Isle Of Man Post Office.
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Brian has been depicted on his own special stamp as part of a series celebrating the 100th Tour which begins on Saturday.
The collection also features Sir Bradley Wiggins, Mark Cavendish, Eddie Merckx and Miguel Indurain.
Brian said he was honoured to be included in the special edition stamp set.
Speaking to the Examiner from his cycling holiday in France, the 82-year-old said: “I can’t complain, it’s great to be in good company.
“It’s another milestone, it’s very nice.”
Cycling enthusiast and Mayor of Kirklees, Clr Martyn Bolt, said: “This is a fitting recognition of the legacy which Brian created in cycling, by opening the door to continental racing which so many others have now passed through.”
Le Tour as it’s now known, started in 1903 with the first British riders taking part in 1937 but it wasn’t until 1958 that the first Briton, Brian Robinson, won a stage.
An Isle of Man Post Office spokesman said Brian had been included both for his victory and his key role in bringing the tour to his home county for next year’s Grand Départ, which will pass through Huddersfield and the Holme Valley on July 6, 2014.
The Isle of Man has played its part too with stage winning record holder Mark Cavendish being a native of the island.
For more than 50 years Isle of Man International Cycling Week has also attracted a long list of Tour de France riders. Brian once competed in the event, coming second to Irish rider Shay Elliot.
Other cyclists honoured in the stamp collection are Frenchman Eugène Christophe, the first rider to wear the Maillot Jaune (Yellow Jersey) and the only one of four men to have won the Tour five times; Jacques Anquetil, Bernard Hinault, Eddy Merckx and Miguel Indurain.
Lance Armstrong was stripped of his seven wins last year.
Visit www.iomstamps.com to find out more about the Tour de France collection of stamps and products and to pre-order.
