59 Club founder Rev John Oates dies

Founder of the 59 Club, Reverend John Oates has died at the age of 93. The club began as a youth group at the Eton Mission in Hackney Wick, London in 1959, led by Rev Oates.

Later as the club grew, he enlisted the help of keen motorcyclist, Father William (Bill) Shergold, who arrived on his bike and the link between the two was made.

A club spokesman said: “The 59 Club would like to express sadness at the passing of the Rev Canon John Oates. He alongside Bill Shergold and other vicars, ran the club until 1960.

“Once the manager of a rock and roll group ‘The Sunsets’ and famously calling Cliff Richard at home in 1959 to play the opening night of the club. A keen motorcyclist who enjoyed a distinguished life working in the church, particularly towards youth support.”

It added: “Without his initial idea, many people’s lives including the motorcycle scene, would be the poorer.”

A service of thanksgiving for his life will take place at St Bride’s Church, Fleet Street, London, on Friday, June 16 at 2.30pm.