The family of Mary Emerson-Reed, a 63-year-old cyclist tragically killed in a collision, have paid an emotional tribute to her memory. Mary, from Shaftesbury, Wiltshire, lost her life after being struck by Alan Morris, a 75-year-old driver from Budbury Circle, Bradford on Avon, who was speeding at the time.
The fatal accident occurred on the evening of June 23, 2023, on the B3081 as Mary cycled home. Morris, who admitted to causing death by careless driving, was sentenced to 10 months in prison earlier this month.
Mary was an enthusiastic and experienced cyclist, having ridden all her life. She served as a ride leader for the Gillingham Wheelers cycling club and was a valued member of the Blackmore Vale Cycling Club. In the year of her death, she was honoured as a Community Champion by Cycling UK for her contributions.
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A passionate cyclist, Mary regularly covered impressive distances, once logging 10,000 miles in a year. Known for her expertise and encouraging leadership, she was deeply respected within her cycling community.
Mary’s life extended beyond cycling; she was also a gifted folk musician and played the fiddle. She was a first violinist with the Shaftesbury Symphony Orchestra and loved participating in the Ashmore Filly Loo, a folk festival celebrating Midsummer’s Day. Additionally, Mary was an active community volunteer, dedicating time to gardening at Stourhead and joining the Hill Top Litter Pickers group.
On that fateful night, Mary and a friend were cycling with full lights and wearing high-visibility tabards when Morris hit her from behind with his Vauxhall Insignia. Morris claimed that the headlights of an oncoming car obscured his vision, but forensic evidence showed that Mary and her friend would have been visible from at least 200 metres due to their lighting.
Further investigation revealed Morris was travelling at approximately 69mph, exceeding the 60mph speed limit. His failure to notice Mary despite her visibility led to her tragic death.
At Salisbury Crown Court on May 9, Morris was sentenced to 10 months in prison and disqualified from driving for 29 months. He must also pass an extended driving test to regain his license and pay a financial surcharge.
Detective Constable Alex Collins of the Serious Collision Investigation Team expressed sympathy for Mary’s family and emphasized the seriousness of careless driving. He stressed that Mary’s proper use of safety gear made the collision preventable, highlighting the dangers of distracted driving regardless of the time of day.
This heartbreaking case serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of road safety and giving full attention to driving at all times.