Sportive participants praised for coming to aid of dying rider

Participants in a sportive have been praised for coming to the aid of a fellow rider who died after collapsing, subsequently named as former professional footballer Karl Payne.

The 44-year-old from Burton on Trent fell ill on the A5 near Chirk yesterday morning as he took part in the 110-mile Dougie Mac Ride from Stoke to Llangollen and back, reports the Daily Post.

A keen cyclist, Payne’s former clubs included Chesterfield and Burton Albion and non-league side Rocester FC, one of a number he coached  after hanging up his boots.

Devastating news reaching us that our former player and coach Karl Payne has passed away.
A lovely guy taken far too soon. RIP Karl. pic.twitter.com/HeZhnR7Xwl

— Rocester FC (@RocesterFC1876) May 7, 2017

The event was in aid of the Douglas MacMillan Hospice, whose chief executive David Webster said: “I have been made aware that other participants in the event stopped and tried to help the cyclist whilst waiting for the arrival of the emergency services.

“We thank everyone for their kindness and genuine display of consideration for their fellow event participant, who was not known to them personally.

“We share their sadness and deep regret that nothing could be done to help the cyclist.

“Ultimately though, our thoughts and hearts go out to the family and friends of the cyclist, we extend our deepest condolences on their sad and untimely loss.”

Nick Evans, temporary superintendent at North Wales Police, said: “Members of the public and the emergency services tried their very best to help the cyclist and I am very sad to say that their efforts were not successful.

“Our thoughts are with the gentleman’s family and friends.”

Anyone who has information is asked to call police on 101 quoting incident reference number V065161.