A Kentish legacy

From his earliest involvement in sponsorship, Tom could be sympathetic to any overseas riders, hopefuls from around the globe who had sold up everything to finance a trip to Britain to try their luck – a level of sacrifice that indicated a huge amount of dedication.

There was a well-beaten path to Tom’s door to ask for aid. Tom could usually be convinced to agree to at least the brief loan of a bike. Since he became involved in supporting riders, he had become a keen judge of riding talent. Brands Hatch held twice-weekly open practice sessions that offered the ideal opportunity. If a rider, especially from overseas, merited support, Tom would often arrange employment, either within the Arter Brothers’ business, or even at AMC. Accompanying wives or girlfriends were looked after by Tom's wife, Gladys. Always the matriarch of the family, she ruled the home the way Tom ruled his business but, likewise, everyone’s needs were met.

Tom regarded competing on the Isle of Man as the pinnacle of