Arthur – my friend and mentor

It was with great sadness that I received the news that my esteemed friend, Arthur Francis, had recently passed away.

Arthur Francis was a pioneer in scootering; he was involved in all forms of scooter sport in the 50s and 60s, gymkhanas, grass track events, hill climbs, regularity trials and road racing.

He ran a successful business in Watford as a Lambretta agent and his name soon became synonymous with Lambretta as he pushed boundaries and among other things, he developed:

1. 250cc Lambretta, using a Bultaco barrel.

2. 42mm Clubman exhaust system.

3. 12v DC lighting system which included two Pathfinder lights. 4. He designed the legendary ‘S' type Lambretta.

In the early 60s Arthur was selling 50 Lambrettas a week! I joined him as an apprentice in 1969; it was such a privilege to learn from ‘The Master'. He encouraged me in my career and sponsored me in my road racing. So when I took over the running of the business in 1973, I was very well prepared.

In 2014 we celebrated 50 years of the everpopular ‘S' type and Arthur joined us to open the event and present trophies to class winners. It was an emotional experience for him to see so many ‘S' types and the enthusiasm of the scootering fraternity.

I have some very fond memories and know I would not be where I am today had Arthur not employed me

– my first job was to paint the toilet! Always good to start at the bottom!

Arthur Francis, I salute you, for your dedication, determination and achievement in making the

Lambretta into the timeless machine it is today.

Rest in peace.