Peter Ward JP MBE (1934 - 2017) was a dynamic character who believed nothing was impossible. A former international cyclist, he began cycling at the age of 16, often borrowing a bike to go out on club runs in Lancashire. Over his illustrious career Ward won over 30 first class races and organised many top-class racing events including the International Grand Prix of Leyland, an 80-mile gruelling road race attracting some of the top UK and European road cyclists.Beyond competition, he became an advocate for the physical and mental health benefits of cycling in the area, establishing the Guild Wheel in Preston, a 21-mile green cycleway that is used by over 100,000 locals each year. Peter served as an elected Labour City Councillor for over 30 years, including Chair of Housing, tackling deprivation, health issues, poverty and other inequalities. He also became a Trade Union representative at British Aerospace, and served as a Justice of the Peace at Preston Magistrates Court for over 40 years.In 2012 Peter was awarded an MBE for his services to cycling.
