Andrew Ritchie, inventor of the Brompton bicycle, has been awarded the Prince Philip Designers Prize for his lifetime contribution to design.
Mr Ritchie was given the award by the Duke of Edinburgh at a reception at Buckingham Palace last night. He headed a strong field of nominees, which included graphic designer Michael Peters and fashion designer Jeff Banks, both of whom received special commendations.
Speaking after the ceremony, Andrew said he was “not finished yet”; although he stepped down as managing director in April 2008, he continues to work on the design and quality of the Brompton in his capacity as technical director.
Will Butler-Adams, his successor as MD, said: "This award is well-deserved recognition for a man who has dedicated his life to the fine perfection of the folding bicycle. Andrew never gave up on his belief that he had conceived a product that would add real value to people’s lives; years of knock-backs, refusals and false starts never dented his determination to make the Brompton a reality.
"Over 30 years on from the first prototypes, and with over 175,000 Bromptons being enjoyed all over the world, he has now received this tremendous recognition for his life’s work. But the philosophy he instilled in the business continues – we remain committed to British manufacturing and to improving on the Brompton’s ingenious design year on year."
