2009-02-05 - Rider Down/Fatality, Notting Hill Gate

It is correct that any speculation about the circumstances of the collision would be misplaced and premature. Experience tells that one has to wait for the inquest, when all the available evidence will be examined with great care. LFGSS members will probably want to attend this, although I should warn that harrowing details may be revealed during proceedings.

Deepest sympathys Velcro.

My thoughts are with you velcro and family.

Just noticed this.

Such sad news.

RIP.

Condolence to you Giles, and Eilidh's family.
Truly sorry for your loss

I’m going to talk to the ghost bike organisers as we’d like to get her track frame back from the police at some point and get that up at the scene, she’d rather have her own bike up there than another.

I must says since this frame sound like a decent one, aren't yo're a bit worried about it getting nicked? even thought it's a ghost bike?

This is gut wrenching, hope you are ok Giles, I will also make a toast in cheer to Eilidh. It is weird to read all comments on this thread, either this forum is perverse (which I doubt) or else it is truly a great place ( I do believe)

Hello, Im Eilidh's sister. I have signed up since Giles showed me the forum last week and have been following your threads. I am really touched by the effort and generosity of you lot. I always cycled in London when I lived there and I am proud to have been part of that 'family', and I totally understand how not cycling was not an option for Eilidh.

I think my parents want to come down and do the ride. I and my partner, Stewart, definately will. I was due to come that w.e. in any case and stay with my little Sledge, so this will take the edge off the fact that she is not there, in a tiny way.

I read about the armbands and all that, she wasnt into pink as such but was always wearing bright colours. Anyway, its the funeral tmrw, after that has settled we (well me at least) would love to get more involved in what you are organising. It will give us focus again.

By the way we dont know what happened, I have been carrying out my own little investigation but it was a straight road, no vehicles turning, so its a bit of a mystery, probably a lane change as someone mentioned. We are not looking for blame, although I do want clarity of events at some point. She was a good and careful rider but her injuries were multiple and severe. Im taking comfort from the fact that they did all they could but it wasnt enough. She didnt do things in half measures, our little Eildih.

Anyway, thanks again, it makes the blow a little easier to bear.
Kate Cairns

I haven't been on the forum in a while and to happen across this is very saddening.
My deepest condolences are passed on to Giles and Eilidh's family.
I'm so happy to see so many people pulling together to commemorate someone who seems to have been a wonderful person passing.
I hope we can raise enough awareness and money for charity to prevent things like this from happening.
My deepest sympathies again.

I am so sorry to hear this, my sympathies go out to you, her family and friends in this terrible time

Such a lovely bike rider

   I am very sorry for her family, her friends, and her bloke.I think the shared picture is an appropriate size. please remind the community to remember how fragile a cyclists life is.

Welcome to the forum Ktee,
I'm one of many who were deeply affected that day Giles announced Eilidh death in hospital.
It sent tremors through this forum, it truly did.
I hope that the broad reaching sympathy and concern helps you grieve your sister.
I will be at the ride to show my respect.

All the best

Dylan

horrible news, Best wishes to everyone involved.
Il be on the ride. X

terrible and tragic news, so sorry. deepest condolences to all the family.

rip.

Feel bad for coming onto this forum, posting something about my trip then finding out about this. Puts things into perspective. Little to add to what has been said already but to send my best, to stay strong and that the memorial ride is a brilliant tribute

rip.

i am so sorry, rest in peace Eilidh x

ive not posted before and i didnt know Eilidh but reading this thread made me cry

can i offer my deepest sympathies to friends and family

Dear All

Ive just spoken to someone I found (through this forum) on another forum, who was at the scene.

If anyone else was there, or knows anyone that was there please please do get in touch. I am finding that everyone has their own tiny (or not so tiny) extra bit of info about the event. I think our 'family' forums are sometimes more efficient and productive than police investigations.

Every contact with any one who was with her, when I could not be, is a help.
Many thanks for all your support, you are very generous.
Kate Cairns

I have just seen this thread and it has really affected me. I didn't know Eilidh, but I wish i could attend on Saturday to show my support.

Condolences to family, friends and all who knew her. My heart goes out to you.

Just as I read the thread, the overwhelming amount of sympathies and solicitousness as well as the way the forum members started to put things in motion (the ride a.o.) struck me and really made me choke. I joined the forum to, not just but before all, express my condolences with you and the family.

See you at the ride.

just read this too........

all the support and comments is very moving. although i know either giles or kate, i send you and all the family and friends involved, my deepest sympathy.

i hope to be there tomorrow to show my respect !!

rsvp

The Smart family will be there too...Eilidh could always make the sun shine!

I just saw a mention of Eilidh's accident on BBC News 24 about ten minutes ago. They filmed a memorial which was two wheels locked to the railings and interviewed her sister.

Kudos to her sister for her appearance on the news.