ALAN WILLIAM JONES
1932 - 2010
It is with great sadness I have to record the passing of Alan Jones, aged 78. He was suddenly taken ill at home and died shortly afterwards in Colchester General Hospital, following a stroke. Born in East London in 1932 moving soon afterwards to Plumstead. His National Service took place in The Royal Corps of Signals of which numerous amusing stories would be related at Club nights.
Eventually he worked for Colliers producing his beloved A.J.S. and Matchless machines. Having married Jean they moved to Kent and as an avid and successful solo trials rider he now found he had a willing sidecar passenger for competitions.
Until recently he was still riding his road going outfit as well as numerous solo machines bemoaning the fact that he found it difficult to keep to speed limits on modern bikes. Alan had several restorations on the go but would willingly put these aside to help anyone with an engineering problem. Living at Alresford near Colchester he was well placed to go sailing and was often found at the Creek “messing about in boats”. In earlier times he won many awards for his sailing ability.
He was a staunch long-term member of the North Essex Section, recently serving with distinction on the committee and always enjoying a good laugh, as I know to my cost at Club nights. He really will be missed by so many and our thoughts go out to Jean, their four daughters and ten grandchildren.