BRITISH cycling legend Barry Hoban has died aged 85.
Hoban was an eight-time Tour de France stage winner and spent 19 years on the professional circuit.
Tributes poured in after the sad news of his passing.
Photographer Graham Watson posted: “Sad news that Barry Hoban has passed away, he was a genuine legend from the glory days of old, and a hero to so many future pros'.
“He was the first British cyclist I photographed in a Tour de France, in 1977, and I'm extremely glad to have this one image of the man in action. RIP.”
Commentator Jez Cox wrote: “What a sad day but also what an important day to celebrate what a massive impact Barry Hoban had.
“He paved the way for Cav, G, Wiggins and Frome. I'll never forget my interview I did with him about his 1974 @GentWevelgem win for TV.
“What a passion for our sport. RIP Barry xx.”
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