Gordon was indentured to the East Midlands Electricity Board as an apprentice in 1951, just after his 15th birthday.

He often spoke about his memories of having to cycle from Finmere to Buckingham, and then most days from Buckingham to places such as Bicester with full electricians kit. It certainly kept him very fit, as can be seen in the few photographs of Gordon in the late 1950s and early 1960s.

As soon as he could afford it Gordon swapped his bicycle for a series of very nice motorbikes, including the AJS in the photograph. However occasionally he lamented that he wished he could have afforded to buy the iconic bike of the period; a Vincent Black Lightning.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vincent_Black_Lightning

If you are interested in a very good song by Richard Thompson about a 1952 Vincent Black Lightning please visit

https://borntolisten.com/2019/09/30/the-best-songs-1952-vincent-black-lightning-by-richard-thompson/

This was found when trying to find 'pop' songs for Gordon's Funeral Service, related to Gordon's interests and his taste in music. Ultimately songs from two of Gordon's favourite artists Jim Reeves and Johnny Cash were chosen.