Malcolm was born on 13 June 1940 in Goole, Yorkshire. His parents were Renee and Joe Bradley (in 2006 Joe was 93 years of age). Malcolm is also survived by two sisters, Elizabeth and Denise. Denise spent many happy hours playing cricket with him as a child.

When Malcolm was three, he moved with his family to Knowsley, Liverpool, but he always considered himself a Yorkshireman. He often returned to Goole to spend time with his much loved grandmother, Lily. When he was 13 he started cycling, which was his passion all of his life. He was lucky enough to compete in the British Olympic team trials when he was 18 years old. He was a member of several cycling clubs over the years and encouraged youngsters with an interest in time trailing. His best time for 25 miles was an amazing 58 minutes!

At 21 he joined the Merchant Navy travelling to Canada, Africa and Australia amongst many other places. While on leave on 14 July 1962 he met Maureen in Southport outside the Floral Hall and they were married in June 1963 in Preston. Malcolm became a proud Dad to Alison, Kevin and Mervy. By setting the example of work hard and keeping to his principles, they thank him for his support in providing a loving home and giving them good memories of holidays and family life. He was a proud Dad at both Alison and Kevin's weddings and took a keen interest in his granddaughter Josie's achievements.

Malcolm moved to Shropshire in 1972 and settled in Condover, working at Stadco. He continued his cycling and was a member of the mid-Shropshire Wheelers, but also got involved with local football and cricket teams. He was a strong, proud man with a fun sense of humour. Whatever he did he put in 100%, be it sporting activities, home improvements or playing the trumpet. He loved the seaside and had many a trip to Tywyn and Fleetwood. His heart was always in the north of our lovely country.

In April 2005 Malcolm had a scan as he had become increasingly unsteady walking and this led to visits to various consultants and a diagnosis of a brain tumour, oligodendroglioma. He had an operation in Stoke Infirmary in August 2005, recovered well initially, but then got MRSA.

Eventually, as the tumour was aggressive, Malcolm had to go in to a nursing home, where he was well looked after. Never complaining, he kept his sense of humour throughout. His family visited constantly and Maureen was with him every day. Christmas day was very special; he always loved Christmas.

Everyone knows Malcolm enjoyed his beer and the family ask that we toast Malcolm's life and strength in dealing with a difficult illness and may he know we were privileged to know and love him. We all miss him deeply.

Maureen, Alison, Kevin, Mervyn, Dave, Kathy and Josie would like to thank everyone for their support and kindness. Generous donations raised over £1,000 for Shrewsbury Mencap and Brain Tumour UK.

Alison Overton, his loving daughter