Cycling trailblazer Brian Robinson has been hailed a 'true inspiration' after he died at the age of 91.
Robinson, from West Yorkshire, became the first Brit to compete in the Tour de France in 1955 when he finished 29th overall. He also won stages of the prestigious race in 1958 and in 1959. The Brit, who was still cycling into his late 80s, also won the prestigious Criterium du Dauphine in 1961 and represented his country at the 1952 Olympics before turning professional.
His grandson Jake Womersley announced his death on social media on Wednesday, posting: "It's with great sadness the family of Brian Robinson have to announce his passing yesterday."
Tributes poured in for the cycling legend, including from cycling team Ineos Grenadiers, who posted: "'The man who blazed a trail for British cyclists at the Tour de France.
'We'd like to join the cycling world in sending condolences and love to the family and friends of Brian Robinson, who passed away yesterday, aged 91. A true legend of our sport.'
Cycling UK added: "The first British rider to complete the Tour de France, and then win a stage, he was a trailblazer in the sport and true inspiration."
Robinson was involved in a collision with a car while riding with friends in 2014, breaking his collar bone, six ribs and puncturing his lung.
But he was out on his bike just six weeks later, as he continued to ride 80 miles a week around his native Yorkshire.
He passed away just days before his 92nd birthday and will be fondly remembered across the world of cycling.
