Frederick Henry Wyld

FREDERICK HENRY “HARRY” WYLD was born in Newton, Derbyshire on 5th June 1900, the son of coal miner Frederick Wyld and his wife Louisa. He started his working life, like his father, as a coal miner. Then between 1930 and 1960 he served in the Derby Borough Police Force. On retirement he lived with his wife, Mary Hettie, in Valley Road, Littleover.

Fred Wyld died at home on 5th April 1976, aged 75. A service was held in St. Peter's Church Littleover, before his cremation at Markeaton Crematorium. A small memorial stone, which is not in any way lavish, is situated in the churchyard of St. Peter's. The stone carries the simple legend: 'HAPPY MEMORIES OF A DEAR HUSBAND FREDERICK HENRY WYLD BORN 5-6-1900 DIED 5-4-1976.' In the top left corner of the stone is an unobtrusive addition. Framed by the dates 1924 and 1928 is the globally-recognised symbol of the five interlocked Olympic rings. This modestly acknowledges the sporting achievements of Fred Wyld.

It is not every family that can boast a famous sporting celebrity, the Wyld family had four brothers who can do this, which is possibly unique. Their names were Frederick Henry, Percy, Lewis and Ralph. They all left a memorable legacy in the field of track cycle racing.

Fred in the 1920’s was one of Britain's most talented. He won 14 national cycling titles and could boast two Olympic bronze medals. In the 1924 Paris Olympics, he achieved a bronze medal in the individual 50km track event. This was the last time that it was an Olympic event. In the 1928 Amsterdam Olympics, he teamed up with brothers, Percy and Lewis, and with time trial specialist Frank Southall. The team finished third in the 4000m team pursuit.

Revised by

Chris Drury

September 2024