Mercian legend Eddie White visits us with Cherie Pridham

Eddie White was a valued founding member of the Mercian-Bantel Team, riding with the team between 1968 and 1979. In recognition of his contribution, Eddie received the Legends of Mercian Award—a small token of our gratitude and appreciation for the important role he played in Mercian’s growth and success during those years.

Eddie was instrumental in securing Bantel’s sponsorship of the team. Following his own racing career, he continued to support and develop a number of rising stars in British and international professional cycling. His involvement in the sport extended to the management and subsequent ownership of the Raleigh Professional Team, alongside his partner, Cherie Pridham.

It was a particular pleasure to welcome Cherie, who took time out of her busy WorldTour schedule as Sports Director of UAE Team L’Imad to join Eddie for the visit. Following her own distinguished racing career, Cherie went on to break new ground in professional cycling, becoming the first woman to serve as a Sports Director in men’s World Tour cycling. She has since firmly established her credentials at the highest level of the sport, contributing to World Tour victories and earning recognition through her work with some of cycling’s most prominent teams.

We greatly appreciated Cherie’s interest in touring our new factory alongside Eddie. Their visit provided an excellent opportunity to reflect on the many changes in professional cycling throughout their careers and to discuss the direction in which the sport is heading. In particular, it was fascinating to hear their perspectives on the continued growth and success of women’s professional cycling and the Women’s WorldTour.

It was a privilege to welcome two such influential figures in cycling and to share with them Mercian’s ongoing journey, celebrating our heritage while looking forward to the future.