enduro news
© Bob Mullins   

News

In the early hours of Friday 18th April the Enduro World lost one of its most well respected and helpful people; Bernard Hodgkins passed away after a long battle with illness, he was 68 ½ years old, nearly everyone in the enduro paddock knew Bernard and his wife Jenny as they had travelled the world following a sport that they loved.

Bernard took full advantage of an enforced early retirement in 1982 which had enabled himself and Jenny to travel Europe and indeed the World. Bernard had also been involved with Motocross and "dropped the gate" of many GP's at Farleigh Castle as well as participating as a rider in local trials during the early 60's. Bernard and Jenny were also founder members of Southern England Trail Riders Association in 1976. They had attended every ISDE since 1971 supporting the British teams and also played a big part in helping the Japanese team from 1994-2006. Bernard over the years had helped riders in the European Championship such as the likes of Mick Extance, Phil Smithson and also the late John Deacon.

Over the last couple of years Bernard had based himself along with his wife Jenny in the Midlands area near the home of Paul Edmondson and his family offering yet again his help and support to Paul's racing and events.

Bernard was a true enthusiast and will be sadly missed around the enduro sport and by all that knew him. Bernard's wife Jenny however, will still continue going to events and following on the tradition.

The funeral will take place on Wednesday 30th April at 1.00 pm at St Giles's Church, Whittington, Nr Lichfield. Family flowers only, anybody wishing to make a donation to one of Bernards charities (St Giles Hospice, RNLI, or Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust) these can be forwarded to Co op Funeral Directors, No.1 Birmingham Road, Lichfield, Staffs. Please telephone Paul or Kath Edmondson on 01543 685430/07973 563191 if you require more details.