Cyclist killed during a 10-mile time trial in Kent

A cyclist has died in hospital five days after colliding with a car when competing in a 10-mile time trial.

John Durey, aged 69, was racing Ashford Wheelers' 10 last Wednesday (May 31) when he collided with a white Mercedes who was overtaking other vehicles at around 7:40pm.

Mr Durey sustained life threatening injuries in the collision and was placed in an induced coma after being airlifted to King's College Hospital in London.

He failed to recover from his injuries and sadly passed away on Monday.

Mr Durey, who was from Lenham, was riding on the Q10/1 circuit on the A2070 near Ashford, Kent. The collision took place near to Kingsnorth when the Mercedes overtook a lorry.

He was a long-standing member of VC Deal and a regular time triallist. He also rode charity cycling events and would go on cycling holidays in Europe.

VC Deal posted on Facebook: "It is with great regret the club announces the sad death of club member John Durey.

"He died today, Monday 5th June, from his injuries sustained in the serious traffic collision last Wednesday. Our thoughts & condolences are with all his family."

Folkestone Velo's Peter Welsh commented: "This is tragic and distressing news for our community of Kent cyclists.

"Some of our members were marshals at Hamstreet last week and we are regular supporters of local events. There is no way in which we as a club can begin to understand or rationalise this senseless event.

"Our thoughts and prayers go out to John's family, friends and club mates. We all do thousands of miles on the road every year for fun, friendship and fitness. Nobody should ever have to pay this price."

Ashford Wheelers have postponed tonight's time trial as a mark of respect.

Any witnesses to the crash are asked to call 01622 798538 or email sciu.td@kent.pnn.police.uk and quote AW/MS/117/17.