Jail for farmer who crashed into cyclist

Medal winning cyclist Simon Richardson had been training for the London games near his home in Bridgend, south Wales, when 61-year-old Edward Adams knocked the sportsman over in his van before driving off.

Mr Richardson’s catalogue of injuries included a fractured spine, broken pelvis, collapsed lung and perforated bowel.

After the crash, alcoholic Adams then rushed back home to hide his vehicle before pouring himself a glass of whisky – in a bid to try to disguise the fact he had been drinking before the collision, Cardiff Crown Court was told.

Judge Daniel Williams said Adams had shown limited empathy for his victim – and none of the courage and dignity displayed by Mr Richardson.

He said: “You first got into the car at 8.45am that morning and when you were breathalysed just after midday you were more than twice the legal drink drive limit.

“Mr Richardson was clearly visible, cycling close to the kerb and wearing bright clothing.

“Your claims that you were affected by sneezing and sunlight were wholly untrue.

“Your reaction to the accident and its aftermath could not be in greater contrast with the man that you had left injured.”

Mr Richardson, 44, who won two gold medals and a silver in 2008, was training for the London Games on the A48 on a road known locally as Crack Hill in August last year.

Following the court’s verdict, Mr Richardson said he faced an uncertain future.

The father-of-two said: “I still have another operation to go through, which if it is unsuccessful could leave me permanently paralysed.

“It’s also been difficult to miss out on taking part in the London Paralympics. But I am a strong person, and plan to keep on fighting.”