Scunthorpe Cycle Shop Veteran Tony Baines Reflects on 68 Years of Service

Tony Baines, a dedicated member of Scunthorpe’s cycling community, has remarkably spent 68 years working at D Speight Cycles. At 82, he now owns the business and collaborates with his grandson, Aiden, dedicated to selling and refurbishing bicycles. As the industry advances, including a pivot towards electric bikes and scooters, Tony’s devotion to his craft is steadfast. Looking back on his lengthy career, Tony comments, “I’ve no idea where the time’s disappeared to. As long as I’m fit at 93, I’ll still be here.”

Tony’s career journey started in 1957 when he joined D Speight Cycles as a novice under the original owner, Don Speight. Over the decades, the shop evolved into a community hub, bustling with steelworkers and local residents. Today, loyal patrons like Steve Waddingham, who bought his first bike from Tony back in 1964, still depend on his expertise. As bicycles transform, Tony and his grandson adapt, keeping themselves busy with continual repairs and a growing interest in electric options. With absolutely no thoughts of retirement, Tony’s devotion to the shop is unwavering, appreciating the routine that keeps him fit and tightly knitted to his local community.

This story draws on original reporting available at www.bbc.com.