The family of a cyclist killed in a crash near Bridgend have paid tribute to her, saying she was "a giant shining beacon of energy and positivity with a passionate zest for life". Triathlete Lucy John, 35, was out on a bike ride when she was involved in the collision on the A48 at the weekend and and died of her injuries at the scene.
Police are continuing to investigate the fatal crash, which happened on the road near the roundabout at Laleston, heading towards Stormy Down, at around 9.10am on Sunday, October 16. While officers are not looking for anyone further in connection with the incident, an appeal for any potential witnesses is continuing.
Lucy has been described by fellow members of her local triathlon club as a "warrior princess " who put her "heart and soul into everything she did". Now her heartbroken family have also paid tribute to her, saying she was "greatly loved and will be sorely missed".
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In a statement, they said: “It is with much pain and great sadness that we as a family must announce the loss of the beating heart at the centre of our family universe - Lucy John (nee Chilcott). Lucy John was painfully taken away from us whilst doing what she loved and what helped fuel the energy of what was the brightest life.
“On Sunday morning, whilst cycling on her road bike, that she loved and was so proud to finally be able to afford, she was involved in a collision with a motor vehicle between Laleston and Stormy Down on the A48. Unfortunately, the extent of her injuries was such that she passed away at the scene.
“Lucy was an enormously loved mum, wife, daughter, sister, granddaughter, cousin, auntie, niece, triathlete, CrossFit athlete, work colleague and friend to many many people across the local community," the family added. "She was a giant shining beacon of energy, positivity with a passionate zest for life, not just for herself but all around her."
Lucy's family also thanked those who had supported them since her tragic death, while also reminding others to "keep your loved ones close and cherish every moment". The statement continued: “The outpouring of love and support from all who knew her, both far and wide is a great source of comfort to all of her family at this painful time.
“Our special thanks must go out to her CrossFit family (CrossFit Pen Y Bont), triathlete family (Pen Y Bont Tri Club) and cycling family (Tondu Wheelers) all of whom have been there for her and are supporting us now, much love to you all.
“Due to the nature of the incident the normal process of saying goodbye to Lucy is going to be a bit more difficult as the full investigation takes its course. Once there is detail available to pass on to everyone with regard to any arrangements, they will be passed out so everyone will have a chance to pay their respects and say goodbye. Please keep your loved ones close and cherish every moment you have with them."
They added: “Love and thanks to you all for your support, from her mum and dad – Sharon and Nigel, the apple of her eye - her son Caden, her loving husband - Evan, her inseparable brother and sister - Heather and Jason, her loving second parents – step mum Angela and mother and father-in-law Jayne and Huw, her doting grandmother Ann. Lucy also had an extensive wider family with whom she was greatly loved and will be sorely missed.”
Lucy was a committed member of Pen-Y-Bont Triathlon Club, and was well-known in the local community. Members of the club said they have been left "heartbroken" by the news and promised to support Lucy's husband Evan and their families.
A statement said: "As a club we are heartbroken to have lost such a committed, determined and caring individual. Lucy oozed positivity and was an inspiration to so many. Not just within our club but to the wider sporting community. As well as her friends, colleagues and family.
"She put her heart and soul into everything she did and seeing her achieve so much in her life is incredible. Lucy and her husband Evan have brought so much to our club and made some great friendships within it too. We will continue to support Evan and his family through this however we can. She was an outstanding athlete across the board. Starting her love for cycling with Tondu Wheelers and also being a part of the CrossFit Community with Crossfit Penybont who are all equally as heartbroken."
A spokesperson for South Wales Police said: "Officers investigating the case would like to hear from anyone who may have witnessed the collision or who may have any dash-cam footage of the incident or who witnessed the manner of driving of the Honda prior to the collision. We are not looking for anyone else in connection to this incident. The driver remained at the scene to assist officers."
If you witnessed the collision or have information that could help with the ongoing investigation, please go here to provide information, quoting ref 2200350471.
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