A CYCLIST suffered a fractured skull in a freak accident as he travelled downhill on a quiet country road.
Stephen Thompson, 47, of Moss Street, Great Harwood, is receiving treatment in the intensive care unit at Burnley General Hospital, where his condition today was described as poorly.
He also suffered a broken elbow in the accident in Cuckstool Lane, Brierfield, at 10pm yesterday. Police today revealed he was not wearing a safety helmet at the time of the accident.
Inspector Steve Chapman said Mr Thompson was cycling down Cuckstool Lane when the nearside brake or gear cable became entwined around the rear axle, causing the back wheel to lock and the handlebars to turn at a 90 degree angle.
The cyclist was thrown into the road. He was unconscious when ambulance crews arrived at the scene.
The accident happened on a long downhill stretch of the road between the Padiham by-pass and the popular Forest pub, where Mr Thompson was riding his MKM machine.
Inspector Chapman said: "At the time of the accident Mr Thompson was not wearing a helmet."
Anyone who saw the accident is asked to contact traffic police at Colne on 01282 472431 or 01282 472542 and leave their details if no-one is available.
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