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In memoriam
Page 46
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John Birch and Fred Speight worked in double harness for nearly 30 years in the former Passenger Vehicle Operators' Association.
Fred was the first chairman of the association from 1 94 5-48 (when John succeeded him) and he held office again from 1 95860. He was also a past chairman of the Metropolitan section of CIT.
The two men's partnership began in the Mother Red Cap, a big Victorian pub in Camden Town. They went barnstorming around the country, marshalling forces against the Transport Act, 1947, and helping to unify a fragmented industry. Both men were ultimately made Commanders of the British Empire.
John paid a moving tribute to Fred and as one who enjoyed his close friendship for nearly 40 years until his death in November, 1973, I can verify every word of it. Fred was a great man and the memorial lectures will perpetuate his selfless contribution to the independent coach operator's survival against odds.