Cyclist badly injured in crash

A VETERAN cyclist from County Down has been left paralysed after a horror crash outside Magherafelt.

Ted McKibben, of Dromara Cycling Club, had travelled to the district at the weekened to take part in the annual Spires Cycling Club Grand Prix.

But at around 3.20pm he was involved in a serious collision with a car whilst cycling on the Draperstown Road, Tobermore.

He was taken to hospital where he remains receiving treatment,

A statement on the Spires Cycling Club website said the club’s thoughts and prayers were with Mr McKibben, and his family, a this time.

The accident occurred in the closing stages of the 32 mile race, and forced a halt to other races.

According to reports, the Dromara CC rider was avoiding a crash in the group when he hit the windscreen of an oncoming car.

He was treated at the scene and taken by ambulance to Antrim Area Hospital.

He was later transferred for more specialist treatment to the Royal Victoria in Belfast, with his club Dromara CC confirming on their website that the collision had left him paralysed.

According to their website Martin Grimley, secretary of Dromara CC managed to get in to see Ted.

“He was in good spirits considering,” he stated.

“For those of you who know Ted well you will know his fighter attitude.

“He did thank those who helped him. I relayed the well wishes I have received to pass onto him. We should spare a thought for the motorist who was involved.”

Cycling clubs from around Mid-Ulster have offered up prayers for Mr McKibben, who is said to be paralysed from the waist down.

Colaisland based Island Wheelers wrote on their Facebook page this week: “Thoughts are with Ted McKibbin from Dromara CC and his family from all at Island Wheelers CC. Once again, we wish him and his family strength at this time.”