Shrewsbury charity cyclist dies after fall

A Shrewsbury father-of-three has died after falling off his cycle on a high-speed descent while training for a charity event.

Gary Brierley, of Pendle Way, Meole Brace, , suffered major head injuries in Wales on Sunday, coming off his bike at about 40mph near Dinas Mawddwy in Snowdonia.

A doctor travelling behind Mr Brierley gave immediate first aid and paramedics later took him to Aberystwyth Hospital, before he was airlifted to Cardiff University Hospital. He died at 5.30am yesterday from his injuries.

The 44-year-old had been training with five friends for a challenge which would have seen him riding for charity from John O'Groats to Land's End next month.

Ten-year-old daughter Lara said her father was like a hero to her. And his wife Sue said her husband was a fantastic dad.

The couple, who celebrated their 21st wedding anniversary last week, met at Shropshire Council, where Mr Brierley worked as an accountant since 1988.

"Gary was dependable, reliable and he was always early for everything," said Mrs Brierley. "He was a family man. He was quiet, unassuming and a fantastic dad."

Mr Brierley grew up in Bury and attended university in Manchester before joining Shropshire Council.

A fitness fanatic, he visited Bannatyne's Gym in Shrewsbury at 6.30am each day.

His mother-in-law Margaret Glanville said: "He was the son I never had. He was always up for a laugh and a joke and he was a great listener."

Eldest son Jack, 12, said he was a great dad while youngest son George, eight, said he was proud of his father, whose organs have been donated to Birmingham Children's Hospital.

As a tribute, the cycling team will continue with the challenge on June 4, raising cash for Cancer Research UK.

By Sam Pinnington