Work has started to fix the Tom Simpson memorial that stands on Mont Ventoux at the place where Simpson collapsed and died during the 1967 Tour de France.
The memorial was first erected in 1969, funded by donations made by British cyclists after an appeal by Cycling Magazine, which was what Cycling Weekly was called at the time. It's since been maintained by family and friends, funded again by donations from British cycling enthusiasts, particularly those from the Doncaster area, where Simpson grew up and started cycling.
The memorial stone was blown off its plinth during a violent storm last autumn, which occurred just before winter snow covered the mountain. Work to re-erect it had to be postponed until the local authorities were sure the snow had gone.
The work is being carried out under the instructions of the Mayor of Bedoin, the town that stands at the start of the southern climb to the summit, which is the one the Tour de France almost always uses.
Work is expected to be completed by Thursday (May 22).
Tom Simpson Memorial to be repaired after damage
Updated: Strong winds blow over the Tom Simpson Memorial on Mont Ventoux, repairs to be undertaken as soon as possible
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Comment: Why we should all take a moment to remember Tom Simpson
On Thursday July 13, 1967, British cyclist Tom Simpson died near the top Mont Ventoux during the Tour de France. Fifty years on, his life will be remembered by lots of people in lots of different ways. This is why I think it’s important that Simpson, his career and his death, should be remembered
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