Cyclists killed in Cumbria crash were brothers

It has been revealed that the two cyclists who died when they were hit by a coach on the A595 in Cumbria at the weekend were brothers, Chrisian and Nicholas Townend. Police are continuing to seek witnesses to the incident, which took place shortly before 3pm on Sunday.

Christian, a scientific officer aged 29, and 21-year-old Nicholas, known as ‘Niggy,’ was planning to go to university with the aim of securing a career in journalism, were avid cyclists who had been returning home to Cockermouth from a ride in the Silloth area when the fatal accident happened.

The pair grew up in the area together with two other brothers, and mother Eleanor, speaking on behalf of the family, said: “My beautiful sons were loved by all who knew them. Their zest for life and lively sense of humour never failed to bring us joy. They shared a love of the outdoors and the local area. They will be greatly missed and never forgotten.”

The 42-year-old coach driver was arrested by police on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and has been released on police bail, with a date set of 6 February 2011 to return to Workington Police Station.

In the meantime, police are urging anyone with information about the incident to contact the West Cumbria Roads Policing Unit on 0845 33 00 247.