John Grimshaw (cyclist)

John Grimshaw CBE (born 1945) is a voice for cyclists in the UK.

Route 8 sign near Harlech, North Wales

National Cycle Network signpost near Penelewey

Sustrans, run by Grimshaw, started the National Cycle Routes. The signposts are a cycle with a number outlined in red. Also, on the routes, there is usually a cast-iron signpost. Grimshaw has a signpost in his front garden as a reminder of his work.

After 30 years with Sustrans, Grimshaw decided to step down from the role of Chief Executive, wanting to pursue other opportunities.

After stepping down, Grimshaw remained active advising and surveying potential new cycle routes for Cycling England before its abolition in 2011.

Personal life

Grimshaw married his first wife, Rosalind, and moved to a commune in Clifton, Bristol looking over the Clifton Suspension Bridge. He fathered four children with Rosalind. However the eldest died in infancy caused by a hole in his heart. They divorced in mid-80s. Now, Grimshaw is with his partner, Sue, in Clifton Wood, Bristol.

The architect, Sir Nicholas Grimshaw, is a cousin of John Grimshaw.

Honours

• Honorary Master of Science (MSc) from University of Bristol (2007)
• Appointed an CBE in the Queen's Birthday Honours, for services to the development of the national cycle network. (2008)

Further reading

• Gould, Mark (8 June 2005). "The seat of power". The Guardian.