RideLondon death: Cyclist Robin Chard dies during event

Fellow riders rushed to help Mr Chard who collapsed at the 25th mile

There were also two serious crashes during this year’s RideLondon event (Getty)

A cyclist has died after collapsing during the annual RideLondon event between the capital and Surrey.

Robin Chard, 48, from Bicester, Oxfordshire, suffered a cardiac arrest at Kingston Bridge at around the 25 mile mark.

Fellow riders and on-duty medics rushed to his aid but he died later at Kingston Hospital.

His wife Vickie said: “Robin was doing something he loved to raise money for Cancer Research UK, a cause that was very important to him after losing his father, his mother’s partner and my mother to cancer. I’d like to thank everyone who has helped and supported Robin and me, especially the event stewards, the event team and the amazing staff at Kingston Hospital.”

Tributes have been paid to Mr Chard, who suffered from Hodgkin Lymphoma as a child, on his Just Giving fundraising page.

Ashleigh Ann Day wrote: “Uncle Robin, so incredibly proud of your efforts in the Prudential 100 bike ride today in London.

“Sadly, he didn’t make it to the end but he passed away raising money for a charity close to his heart. If anyone can still donate in his memory I know how much he would appreciate it.”

Another tribute, from Emma Norton-Smith read: “RIP Robin, I can't quite believe the news. Many childhood memories with your family. Much love to you all xxx”.

The event was also marred by two serious crashes, one of which happened in Pyrford near Woking and the other in Thames Ditton. Both crashes were attended by air ambulance.

A RideLondon spokesman confirmed Mr Chard’s death “with great sadness”.

A total of 33 riders were taken to hospital during the event, with seven remaining in hospital.

The spokesman added: “Three riders were seriously injured. The Prudential RideLondon medical team is liaising closely with the hospitals and the welfare team is supporting the families of the injured riders.”

Last year, a 55-year-old collapsed and died during one of the event’s steepest climbs.

The rider fell from his bike while travelling up the lower section of Leith Hill, near Dorking, Surrey.

Click to donate to Mr Chard’s Just Giving page.