THE funeral of a leading light in the world of cycling is set to take place today with dozens of cyclists leading the cortege.

They are turning out to remember Geoff Shergold from Southampton who was a stalwart of the cyclo-cross scene in the South of England for more than 40 years.

Geoff died aged 64 after developing cancer in his kidney. He was chairman of the Wessex Cyclo-Cross Association following a successful career, winning the Wessex Championship seven times.

His love of cycling began in 1964 before which he was a county class swimmer.

But although he was a successful cyclist it was his role as mechanic that he will be remembered for.

He served in the GB team for an unbroken spell of 30 consecutive World Cyclo-Cross Championships.

He also tirelessly worked as a mechanic for disability cycling long before it achieved the high profile which it enjoys today, working as team manager to the cycling squad at the 2000 Paralympics in Sydney.

Martin Balk, 54, secretary of the New Forest Cycling Club, first met Mr Shergold in the 1970s and has previously raced against him.

He said: “He was a larger than life character who loved cycling and did so much for the sport.

“He was a top mechanic, team manager and a great rider in his day.

“I raced against him and he always beat me.

“He was very friendly, always had plenty to say and was always a great speaker at cycling club dinners.”

Old friend Gary Evans said: “He was big guy, about 6ft 2ins but also a massive personality as well. In cycling terms he was one of the big names.”

Dozens of cyclists will lead the funeral cortege as it arrives at Southampton Crematorium’s Crematorium at 11am today.

A wake will take place later at “The View” in Southampton Sports Centre.

Geoff leaves behind his long term partner, Susan Galton.