Inducted into the British Cycling Hall of Fame in 2010, Beryl Burton (1937-1996) is considered by many the ‘best ever woman rider’.

Born in 1937 in West Yorkshire, where she lived for most of her life, she suffered chronic health problems as a child. Introduced to cycling by her husband, she took her first National medal in 1957, and so began an incredible cycling career.

Over an impressive lifetime she clocked up more than 120 National Titles, five World pursuit titles and two World road titles. On top of this she has six bronze and silver international medals. In 1967, she set the 12-hour time trial record, which remained unbeaten by a male or female rider for two years.

Her immense achievements have been honoured in various ways; she was inducted into the British Cycling Hall of Fame in 2010, and the ‘Beryl Burton Cycle Way’ between Knaresborough and Harrogate was named in her honor.

This year, as part of the Yorkshire Festival celebrating the Grand Depart of the Tour de France, a play based on her life written by Maxine Peak will be performed at the West Yorkshire Playhouse.