Cyclist killed on Isle of Man

One of the Isle of Man's most promising young cyclists has been tragically killed in a freak accident. 13 year-old James Berry was returning home to Douglas from a training ride with a group of cyclists on Thursday, December 29 when he was struck by a wheel which had come loose from a heavy goods vehicle travelling in the opposite direction. He was rushed to hospital, but never recovered from his injuries.

James, who was a member of Team Scottish Provident Isle of Man, had recently been co-opted onto British Cycling's 2006 Talent Team, despite being officially a year too young.

His list of achievements include overall victory in the 2004 Kerry Youth Tour, a silver medal in British Cycling's 2004 national youth circuit race championships, a bronze medal in British Cycling's 2004 national youth track championships, a second place overall in British Cycling's 2004 national youth circuit race series and top 13 year-old in the national final of the 2005 GHS 10 mile-time trial championship.

James attended the Scottish Provident Youth Cycling League staged each summer at the National Sports Centre in Douglas. Organiser Dot Tilbury said, "We are all devastated over James' very tragic death and our thoughts are with his family and friends at this very difficult time. He will be greatly missed by everyone."