The Manx Motor Cycle Club is saddened to learn of the death of one of the pioneers of the Manx Grand Prix, Dr. J Kelly Swanston at the age of 104 years on Sunday 17th February 2013, at his home in Cumbria.
Kelly Swanston first competed in the Senior Manx Grand Prix in 1931, collecting an undistinguished ‘DNF’ for his efforts.
Returning twelve months later and in subsequent years finishing every race he entered, culminating with victory in the 1935 Senior Manx Grand Prix, having earlier in the week secured third place in the Junior ‘Manx’.
Kelly was delighted to receive his invitation to our 90th Anniversary celebrations and was preparing some notes on his racing experiences at the MGP before being taken ill a couple of days before his passing. He attended and thoroughly enjoyed the celebrations held during the 75th Anniversary of the Manx Grand Prix in 1998.
He leaves sons John, Rory and daughter Val, adored grandfather of Sophie, Tom, Antonia, David, Julian and Henrietta. Funeral Service at All Saints Church, Helmsley at 11am on Monday 4th March followed by private cremation. Flowers welcome, donations if desired to Prostate Cancer UK or c/o G&M Agar, New Road, Kirkbymoorside.
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