Last updated 19:44, Thursday, 17 July 2008

A YOUNG cyclist from the Keswick area died after colliding with a car down a steep hill, an inquest heard.

Joel David Stacey, 23, of St John’s in the Vale, died last July at Low Manor Brow, Keswick, while cycling to work.

At an inquest last Thursday, coroner John Taylor recorded that Mr Stacey died as a result of an accident.

Mr Stacey, who was born in Buckinghamshire, moved to Cumbria to live with his aunt and uncle at Low Bridge End Farm. His parents live in Canada.

A keen climber, cyclist and fell runner, he worked at Keswick’s George Fisher shop. He left for work on the morning of July 9 at 8.30am.

The inquest heard that Mr Stacey was travelling fast down a hill and, where the accident happened, there are severe bends which restrict the view ahead.

Mr Taylor said: “The collision occurred when Joel had gone around the bend, crept to the other side of the carriageway and he collided with a car.”

Mr Stacey died from a deep injury to his neck.

Car driver Rosalind Hinkley, 63, of Newcastle, said: “He came around the corner on my side of the road travelling towards me. I braked hard.

“It happened so fast. He came into view and struck the car. I can’t even say how fast he was going as I didn’t see him for long enough.

“I didn’t believe he appeared out of control, but I only saw him briefly.”

Mrs Lee Wren, of Thirlmere, who was travelling in her car behind Mr Stacey, said: “He was an experienced cyclist and was always courteous to cars. He always pulled into the side if a car came.

“For a split second you can get a view of approaching cars. I knew from Joel’s position that an accident was going to happen. Joel’s bike appeared to hit the front of the car.”

Mrs Wren said that the weather was bright and sunny and the road was dry.

She added: “I have seen him go down this hill countless times. I think he may have moved over into the road due to his speed.”

Mr Taylor asked Mrs Wren if Joel appeared to be cycling in a manner that put himself at risk. She answered that he didn’t appear to be.

Mr Taylor said that medics were unable to help him and he died of his injuries at the scene.

Mr Stacey was not wearing a helmet, but Mr Taylor said that he didn’t think that a helmet would have helped him in any way.