Alan Bilton My Grandfather

[bikerjohn]

I'm trying to do some research on my Grandfather Alan Bilton.

I'm led to believe he was a member of the Manchester 17 Club somewhere between the Late 1940's and the 60's

He would of competed in Trials and Hill climbs, poss Scrambles.

He worked at Derek Warburton's Garage in Hazel Grove near Stockport.

After this he opened a Motorcycle shop around the Derby Street area of Macclesfield where Tesco's now stands.

[Edd]

I met Alan Bilton over 50 years ago at a motorcycle shop in Buxton called Watlings. I was only 14 years ago at the time and used to clean the bikes and do odd jobs for him.

[bikerjohn]

Jun 19, 2009 20:46:58 GMT @Edd said:

I met Alan Bilton over 50 years ago at a motorcycle shop in Buxton called Watlings. I was only 14 years ago at the time and used to clean the bikes and do odd jobs for him.

Firstly my Sincerest apologies for not coming on the forum for such a long time. Due to Immense problems beyond my control that are now fortunately resolved.

The good news is however that I can at last now continue to gather as much history about my Grandad.

Any further information would be greatly appreciated. I now have a copy of a picture of him in his Motorbike shop. which I can scan and put online.

I'll be back on the forum with greater frequency over the coming months

[bikerjohn]

I now have A scanned Picture of Alan, please Pm me for a copy if you may be able to help..

Thanks again, John

[bikerjohn]

Here's some more history hot off the press.

Alan was born in 1915 and first competed in the 1930's in Yorkshire.

From 1939-47 he was on National service.

He Worked for Watlins On Buxton Rd in Macclesfield from approx 1957.

Watlins Macc. shop was compulsory purchased for the towns redevelopment which led to its closure.

The Watlins Family opened a new shop in Macc. Which was Run by the Daughter and Son in Law of the Family.

In the Early 60's Watlins Expanded and opened a New shop in Upper Buxton in an Area called the Square which Alan ran as the Manager. Until he was made Redundant by its closure

He then Opened his own Business in Macclesfield in the Mid to late 60's. This shop was also Compulsory purchased for the redevelopment of Macc.

He then went to work For Derek Warbuton in Hazel Grove who also used to compete, Alan building some of his bikes. He Retired from Warbutons in 1979.

He was also a member of the Buxton Motorcycle club as my Mum remembers going to Meetings of the Club.

John

[bikerjohn]

Just a quick post to see if anybody had any further information could you let me know,

thanks, John

[bikerjohn]

Has Anybody Managed to dig up any information for me ??