He was one of the very first big names in motorcycle scrambling - a local legend. And one of his award-winning bikes has come up for auction.

The white helmet and the 500cc Triumph machine, bearing the number 3, carrying Glastonbury-born Jim Alves, were famous sights around scramble tracks all over Europe as the works rider romped home in front for several years between the end of the war and the middle 1950s.

One of the bikes he was riding when he scooped a gold medal will be up for auction with Bonham's next month, with a guide price of £7,000-£10,000.

The historic Triumph Trophy formed part of Great Britain's team that contested the ISDT in 1951, held that year in Varese, Italy. All three Triumph teamsters won Gold Medals and the Meriden factory walked away with the manufacturers' award.

After the event Triumph stripped all the ISDT parts off 'LNX 361' and replaced the 650cc engine with a 499cc unit whose number did not match the frame's. They then sold the machine to Jim Alves, who retailed it as a regular Trophy. Its late owner acquired 'LNX 361' in 2004 and restored the Trophy to ISDT specification,

Mr Alves was born in Glastonbury and on leaving Elmhurst Grammar School he was articled to his father's architect and surveying business, qualifying and subsequently moving to take up an appointment with Exeter City Council. He became a draughtsman with Westland Aircraft.

But, in 1942, he married, and moved to Coventry to become architect and surveyor to the Rootes Group, which produced Humber and Hillman cars.

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His real passion was motorcycling and Triumph recognised his abilities and signed him up as a works rider. He rode all over Europe for 10 years in major trials and scrambles as a hugely successful British team member.

Jim Alves racing

In 1948 he returned to Glastonbury to go into the garage business. Later he ran successful businesses for motorcycles and, later, cars, in Street.

You can find the listing here, and for more information about the bike, pick up a copy of Classic Bike Guide out at the end of March.