Keith Fergus tribute

Keith Fergus began working for Cycling UK in February 2019 as the cycling instructor for the Inverclyde Bothy. Keith was one of the most skilled and talented cycling instructors in Scotland so to have his expertise as part of the team was something Cycling UK will be eternally grateful for.

Keith worked incredibly hard to support individuals to achieve their cycling goals, be it learning to ride or getting on-road with confidence. He had a unique ability to make people feel comfortable and at ease.

Keith was also instrumental in building up partnerships with local organisations to help their staff and client groups access cycling – his work on getting referrals from health care professionals to the Bothy was of particular note.

Keith was a tremendous advocate for the health benefits of cycling – both mental and physical – and was committed to this as his main way of travelling to and from work.

Keith was a person who always wanted the best for the project and his commitment to be creative with ways to support people during the pandemic was striking. He also wished to help other members of the team with their projects and played a major role in developing our current resources used for delivering cycle training.

Emerging from the pandemic with enthusiasm and positivity, the Bothy has become firmly established in the region as the go-to place for all things cycling and since Keith’s diagnosis in late February he remained committed to the project and would regularly want updates on how things were going.

Away from Cycling UK, Keith worked for Cycling Scotland as a very well-respected tutor. He was the driving force behind the incredible work done in East Renfrewshire, helping it become the first council in Scotland to deliver Bikeability Scotland in every primary school. A passionate walker and talented photographer, Keith produced a range of walking guides throughout Scotland.

Keith passed away one day shy of his 50th birthday on 4 November 2022. He leaves behind his wife and two children of whom he would often speak with great pride and love.

He shall be dearly missed by Cycling UK and the wider cycling community and we wish to place on record our thanks to Keith for being a wonderful colleague and friend. We pass on our condolences to his family, friends and everyone who knew him.

Keith’s family have set up a fundraising page for the Beatson Cancer Charity, which provided invaluable support for Keith during his treatment.