Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
Ian Johnston

Cyclist dies while climbing hill during Prudential RideLondon race

A screen grab showing an air ambulance landing on Leith Hill to treat the cyclist (Image taken from NPAS Redhill Youtube channel)

A 55-year-old cyclist collapsed and died while climbing the highest hill in Surrey during the Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 100 event on 2 August.

The participants were stopped at Leith Hill for about 45 minutes from noon and then a diversion was put in place so many of the cyclists did not go up it.

A spokeswoman for the event said: “It is with deep sadness that we confirm the death of a participant in the Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 100 today.

“A 55-year-old man collapsed on the lower part of the ascent of Leith Hill and, although he received immediate medical attention and an air ambulance attended, the death was confirmed at the scene.

“Our immediate concern is for the family of the deceased and no further details will be released at this time. We would like to express our sincere condolences to his family and friends.”

Leith Hill is about 294 metres high, although the road does not go over the top. The average gradient is 6.5 per cent, but it reaches 12 per cent in places, according to the Sportive Cyclist blog.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.