ROBIN PENRICE

1942 - 2007

Please pass on this piece of very sad news to anyone you think would want to know. Tony and I went to see Robin nearly two weeks ago and although he was obviously not at all well at the time, this news has come a big shock. He spoke fondly of the times he had spent with our club and was still promising to write some Triumph 2000 stories for us. They don't make 'em like him anymore,

Kind regards

Alan Crussell

It is my sad duty to inform you that the Standard-Triumph movement has lost one of its truest and most loyal friends. Robin Penrice died on the evening of Wednesday 27th June at St Michael's Hospice, Bartestree, Hereford. Although he had not really been that well for some time, it was only about three weeks ago that Robin was diagnosed with terminal cancer and taken into hospital. I last saw him twelve days ago, on the day he was transferred to the hospice and, despite his obvious pain and discomfort he was as chirpy as ever, still recounting outrageous tales of his experiences when working at Standard-Triumph.

I feel privileged to have known Robin and am very proud to be counted as one of his many friends. In every sense of the word he was a genuine 'Child of Triumph' and he always maintained a tremendous affection for the people that had contributed to the heritage of the Triumph name. Robin wasn't that interested in statistics, preferring to recount stories about the personalities and amusing events he had encountered – adding a unique and fascinating perspective to the marque's history.

Robin had an amazing world-wide network of contacts and could be relied upon to produce the most unusual items of information at the drop of a hat. I first spoke to Robin after he wrote to Triumph World magazine following the publication of the first issue in March 1995 and after several further letters, his first 'Memories of Coventry' appeared in the February/March 1996 issue (No. 6). Thereafter he produced a series of enlightening and popular columns until he was unceremoniously dumped by the new owners, writing his final contribution in Issue No. 72. I will really miss Robin and I cannot believe I will never again pick up the phone to hear him start a conversation by saying: "Here, did you know that…" before going on to describe some hilarious occurrence from the past.

The world has lost a wonderful character and there will be less laughter around with his passing. I am sure everyone will join me in expressing sincere condolences to Robin's family.

Tony Beadle

28th June 2007