Paralympic cyclist 'critically ill'

Paralympic champion Simon Richardson was cycling near Bridgend when he was apparently struck by a white van and thrown to the side of the road
12 April 2012

A gold medal-winning Paralympic cyclist is in a critical condition after a hit-and-run incident with a van.

Simon Richardson, who won two gold medals and a silver at the 2008 Beijing games, was cycling near Bridgend when he was apparently struck by a white van and thrown to the side of the road.

The 44-year-old was taken by air ambulance to the University of Wales Hospital, Cardiff, where he is undergoing treatment for multiple injuries.

His wife said he is in a "critical but stable condition".

A 59-year-old man from the Cowbridge area has been arrested.

Inspector Tony McAlinden said: "South Wales Police are appealing for witnesses following a road traffic collision that occurred at approximately 9.40am on Wednesday August 17 at the A48 Crack Hill, outside Crack Hill House, Bridgend.

"The Welsh Paralympic cyclist Simon Richardson MBE was involved in the injury road traffic accident. He was apparently struck by a small white van travelling in the same direction.

"The van did not stop and continued east along the A48 in the general direction of Cowbridge."

Two further vehicles were later involved in a collision at the same location - a black Toyota Avensis estate car, driven by a 43-year-old man, and a gold Rover 25 car driven by a 74-year-old woman."

Mr McAlinden added: "South Wales Police are appealing for any witnesses to contact them."

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