Richard Thorpe from Batley, better known in the world of trials as ‘Mr. PJ1’ has died aged 72.

Richard was a keen trials rider and in later life was an enthusiastic supporter of the Pre’65 movement and a very well-known face in paddocks across the country and beyond. Yorkshire-man John Reynolds was a long time supported rider of the UK PJ1 concern, in fact he rode Richard’s Suzuki in a Kia championship round this year and won his class on the machine.

For many years the UK representative of the USA based chemical manufacturer PJ1, Richard was in effect the ‘face’ of the brand for dealers and customers alike within the United Kingdom.

Richard Thorpe lost his battle with cancer on the morning of 21st December 2018, his wife Christine was with him at the end. He was in Pinderfields Hospital, Wakefield when he died.

Trials Guru wish to record sincere condolences to Richard’s family at this difficult time.