Shropshire Star

Shropshire cyclist's life saved as helmet splits in two with force of collision

A man's life was saved by his bicycle helmet when he was thrown over his handle bars after hitting a gatepost on a ride in Shropshire.

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The man, who is in his 50s, was cycling with a group of friends in Bomere Heath, Shrewsbury, when the accident happened.

Two ambulances were called near to The Hayes Farm Junction at 11.15am on Saturday.

A surgeon who lives nearby was also on hand and had started treating the patient when crews arrived.

Jamie Arrowsmith, spokesman for West Midlands Ambulance Service, said: "On arrival, crews discovered a man, believed to be in his 50s, who had collided head first with a stone gate post after being thrown over the handlebars of his bike.

"His helmet, which had split into two as a result of the impact, was nearby.

"Following assessment from ambulance staff he was treated for a cut to the head and a back injury, but medics on scene were left in no doubt that his decision to wear a helmet saved his life due to the severe nature of the impact.

"He was then transferred to Royal Shrewsbury Hospital for further assessment.

"Thankfully, the man was conscious and able to talk to ambulance staff about the incident.

"Reflecting on the damage caused to his helmet, he said he was going to use it to demonstrate to other cyclists in his group the importance of wearing one every time they get on a bike."

The man's cycle helmet which split in half. Photo: West Midlands Ambulance Service
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