Plaque honouring cycling 'trail-blazer' unveiled

Eileen Sheridan died last year at the age of 99

A blue plaque has been unveiled to honour cycling pioneer Eileen Sheridan, who died last year at the age of 99.

Sheridan, who competed with Coventry Cycling Club, was described by British Cycling as an inspiration to many who followed.

In all she broke 21 records, some of which still stand to this day.

At the Coventry's Butts Park Arena ceremony her daughter, Louise Sheridan, said the recognition was a "great honour for me and the family".

Louise Sheridan unveiled the plaque honouring her mother

Nicknamed the Mighty Atom due to being 4ft 11in (1.49m), she joined Coventry Cycling Club in 1944 and started racing a year later.

After achieving success at the national time-trial championships, Sheridan, from Isleworth, took a break from the sport to give birth in 1946.

Eileen Sheridan broke 21 records, some of which still stand to this day

Returning just seven weeks later, she took part in 50-mile and 100-mile time-trials, and would later go on to become national champion in both categories.

She also broke the Land's End to John O'Groats women's record in 1954, riding the first 470 miles to Carlisle without a break.

Sheridan "blazed a trail for countless female riders before women were even allowed to compete on the Olympic or world stage", British Cycling said.

Louise Sheridan, said the recognition was a "great honour for me and the family"

"Mum's heart was always Coventry and to have a permanent memorial in the city is a lovely achievement," added Ms Sheridan.

The plaque has been placed on the exterior of the arena which was previously a cycle track where she won her first race in 1947.

"It's lovely so many people can see it, it's part of the history of Coventry cycling, and now it's part of the rugby ground, and hopefully it will encourage more people to cycle and enjoy the area," she added.

Peter Walters said the society was trying to highlight the history and the heritage of cycling in the city

The plaque was organised by the Coventry Society in conjunction with Coventry Cycling Club.

Deputy chair of the society, Peter Walters, said it was trying to highlight the history and the heritage of cycling in the city.

"This was the place where the modern bicycle was invented, and for the next 10 years after that Coventry was the world's leading manufacturer of bicycles," he said.

"Eileen Sheridan was possibly the most celebrated cyclist ever produced by the city and even the country.

"It's really great that we can celebrate her achievements."