33/18 News has learnt the sad news that Bury head coach John Burston died on Wednesday August 19th. Here’s how the Bury club announced the news yesterday on their Facebook page the same day:
“It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we share the devastating news that our Head Coach and dear friend, John Burston, passed away peacefully in the early hours of this morning.
“To say John was a pillar of Bury Cycle Speedway is an understatement. His loyalty, dedication, and passion for the club and its members over the years were unmatched.
“John changed the lives of countless youngsters, mentoring and guiding them both on and off the shale from their first pedal on a bike right through to adulthood. An immensely proud man, nothing brought a bigger smile to John’s face than seeing “his” riders succeed in anything they put their minds to. As a coach, his standards were high because he believed in everyone’s potential and wanted nothing but the very best for his team.
“On the track, John was a force to be reckoned with. Known for being lightning fast out of the gate, he feared no one and relished every single battle, fearlessly racing into his 70s against riders sixty years his junior.
“John’s cycle speedway career spanned decades, but his true legacy lives on in the riders he taught, the friendships he forged, and the club he helped build.
“The thoughts, prayers, and heartfelt condolences of everyone at Bury Cycle Speedway are with John’s family, loved ones, and all who were fortunate enough to know him.
“Rest in peace, John. Thank you for everything. You will be sorely missed, but never forgotten.”
John’s funeral will take place at Blackley Crematorium on Friday 11th September at 10:00am.
All who knew John and wish to pay their respects, celebrate his life, and give him the send off he deserves are invited to attend
