Photo credit: B&SS |
I first got to know Alec Mann back in the early 2000s, when he and I were both regular riders on the Spokes Sunday bike rides. When I helped to set up Edinburgh 20-Milers in 2004, Alec was one of our first members and quickly became a familiar figure in the group. His last ride with us was last month's run to South Queensferry. He died a couple of weeks later at the age of 71.
Alec was very much a stalwart of the local cycling community. He frequently cycled with Mellow Velo and organised and led many of their cycling weekends. He was known for his near-encyclopaedic knowledge of local bike routes, and always took care to recce his rides in great detail. He was a long-standing member of Spokes, and served on their planning committee. He helped with the preparation of Spokes' bike maps, and was meticulous in checking their accuracy. As well as cycling, he enjoyed walking, and often went out with the walking group at St Peter’s Church in Lutton Place, where he was an active member of the congregation.
Alec Mann was born in St. Albans in 1951. Because of his father's work, the family frequently moved around the country, so Alec spent his childhood in various places, including Altrincham, Bristol and Edinburgh, amongst others. To avoid having to constantly change schools, he attended Shrewsbury School as a boarder. He then went to Edinburgh University where he developed a deep interest in computer science. This was to become the basis of his career. He remained at the university, working mainly at the King's Buildings as a software developer in the agricultural sector. He was latterly a consultant with Biomathematics & Statistics Scotland where he provided technical and statistical support for various agricultural research projects. He retired a few years before his death.
Alec is survived by his mother (aged 96 and still independent), a sister, brother, nieces and a great-niece. I know that the 20-Milers membership will wish to join me in passing on our condolences to his family.
Funeral arrangements
Alec's funeral will take place in the Main Chapel at Mortonhall Crematorium, Howdenhall Road, on Thursday 27 October at 14:00. No flowers, please. There will be a collection in aid of Bethany Christian Trust.
Mike Lewis