GIRL DIES: Larkmead pupil suffered severe injuries in bike crash

6:30am Friday 3rd July 2009 in Abingdon By Emily Allen

Scene of the tragedy in Copenhagen Drive, Abingdon Scene of the tragedy in Copenhagen Drive, Abingdon

AN 11-year-old schoolgirl last night died after suffering serious head injuries in a crash in Abingdon.

Ty-Ree Partridge was cycling home from Larkmead School’s science club when she and a van collided in Copenhagen Drive on Wednesday night.

She suffered serious head injuries and was taken to the John Radcliffe Hospital but passed away last night.

A hospital spokesman said: “Sadly she has died.”

Her death, coming nine months after another Larkmead pupil, Sarah Waterhouse, died in a cycling accident, sparked calls for safer roads in the town.

Larkmead headteacher Chris Harris believed Ty-Ree had been riding along the designated cycle path but did not know how the accident happened.

He said in a letter to parents: “Ty-ree had stayed to attend our science club and was making her way home by bike.

“Once she had traversed the pathway from the bridge above our school to Copenhagen Drive, she began to make her way to Dunmore Road.

“We do not know exactly what happened next but she collided with a van and suffered very serious injuries.”

He added: “We’re still going through a very serious grieving process and establishing a sense of balance from when we lost one of our students Sarah Waterhouse, which in a school takes time. When another incident of this nature happens you go through that process again.”

Thames Valley Police said no arrests had been made over the incident.

Last night, Di Mashiter, the headteacher of the town’s John Mason School – where Ty-Ree had previously attended – called on Oxfordshire County Council to act immediately to make the town’s roads safer.

The heads of Larkmead, Fitzharrys, John Mason, Abingdon School, St Helen and St Katherine, Our Lady’s Convent and Abingdon & Witney College want: l 20mph speed limits l New pedestrian crossings l Speed humps Ms Mashiter said: “Al-though Ty-Ree was only at John Mason School for a short period of time, she was a valued member of our school community.

“Our thoughts are with Ty-Ree’s family and friends at this very difficult time.

“The council must act now and work with us to provide safer roads on which our children can travel to school.”

Teresa Kelly, the principal of Abingdon & Witney College, said: “I don’t think urgent is a strong enough word – it has to take priority now.”

Anthony Kirkwood, of Oxfordshire County Council’s road safety unit, said that a full investigation would take place into the accident.

He said £35,000 had been set aside for improvements to cycle routes in Abingdon and officers were exploring measures to improve road safety around Larkmead School.

Susan Tranter, headteacher of Fitzharrys, said: “If every road had a cycle way, that would be a significant way forward but that would not be enough.

“We would have to continue to educate all adults, cyclists and road users to make the best of these community facilities and promote safety and well-being.”

news@oxfordmail.co.uk

Comments (41)

7:33am Fri 3 Jul 09

William Bonnie says...

Please, no knee jerk reactions. We need to know what happened before the idiots spread more concrete blocks on the road which damage car tyres and make cars dangerous invisibly because the damage is to the inside of the tyre edge. Let the heads stick to what they know about and not show their ignorance.
Please, no knee jerk reactions. We need to know what happened before the idiots spread more concrete blocks on the road which damage car tyres and make cars dangerous invisibly because the damage is to the inside of the tyre edge. Let the heads stick to what they know about and not show their ignorance. William Bonnie

8:16am Fri 3 Jul 09

Leopardy says...

Please at least make all housing estates a compulsory 20 mph. Cars reach 35/40 on my estate.
Please at least make all housing estates a compulsory 20 mph. Cars reach 35/40 on my estate. Leopardy

8:32am Fri 3 Jul 09

Abingdon Neil says...

I agree with William Bonnie that we don't want 'knee-jerk' reactions, but it is the case that the Heads in Abingdon have been arguing for better road safety for their pupils for some time.
I agree with William Bonnie that we don't want 'knee-jerk' reactions, but it is the case that the Heads in Abingdon have been arguing for better road safety for their pupils for some time. Abingdon Neil

9:38am Fri 3 Jul 09

LanceIot says...

This road has been a death trap for years and it takes this tragic accident to get the council to do something as usual.

I do not care if "Knee jerk" reactions cause thousands of ponds of damage to car tyres if it saves a childs life, it is well worth the money.

I just hope the poor parents of this child do not hear your comments Bonnie. To value the cost of tyres over a childs life is unexcusable!
This road has been a death trap for years and it takes this tragic accident to get the council to do something as usual. I do not care if "Knee jerk" reactions cause thousands of ponds of damage to car tyres if it saves a childs life, it is well worth the money. I just hope the poor parents of this child do not hear your comments Bonnie. To value the cost of tyres over a childs life is unexcusable! LanceIot

9:49am Fri 3 Jul 09

Cyclist 'n Driver says...

This is such a sad news item. I have a daughter the same age and really feel for the family.

I cannot believe that a motorist thinks tyres are more important. What a horrible and utterly selfish post. Look to yourself Mr Bonnie.
This is such a sad news item. I have a daughter the same age and really feel for the family. I cannot believe that a motorist thinks tyres are more important. What a horrible and utterly selfish post. Look to yourself Mr Bonnie. Cyclist 'n Driver

10:09am Fri 3 Jul 09

mechcol says...

Total agree with above comment and Mr Bonnie get a grip ,your car will not suffer any damage if driven appropriately to road conditions ...
Total agree with above comment and Mr Bonnie get a grip ,your car will not suffer any damage if driven appropriately to road conditions ... mechcol

11:01am Fri 3 Jul 09

BartSimpson says...

Mr Bonnie is just being realistic. It is very tragic that this young girl has lost her life. No one knows what caused this accident yet, so you can not coment on how to improve safety. If it finds that the cyclist was at fault, there is no need to change the road, but to educate cyclists better, especially the ones in Oxford who have no idea how to ride safely.
Mr Bonnie is just being realistic. It is very tragic that this young girl has lost her life. No one knows what caused this accident yet, so you can not coment on how to improve safety. If it finds that the cyclist was at fault, there is no need to change the road, but to educate cyclists better, especially the ones in Oxford who have no idea how to ride safely. BartSimpson

11:43am Fri 3 Jul 09

Superstar2167 says...

My condolences go to the family of the girl killed in this accident. However it is important to find out what happened before any safety measures are implemented. Sadly accidents do happen as might prove to be the case.
My condolences go to the family of the girl killed in this accident. However it is important to find out what happened before any safety measures are implemented. Sadly accidents do happen as might prove to be the case. Superstar2167

12:15pm Fri 3 Jul 09

wallingford1 says...

right folks....lets calm down and stop the anti-car thing yet again.

No arrests were made..which implies the driver wasnt' at fault. Also the teacher "believes she was in the cycle lane" and yet doesnt know what happens...which also implies hearsay and didnt actually witness a thing. Poor journalism and very one-sided.

yes it's very sad and i'm sure the facts will come out soon.

also...making an area a 20 limit from a 30 still wont stop the people driving at 40mph will it? if they speed, they'll speed no matter what the speed is, though speed has not even been stated as a factor in this incident.

kids arent the little angels on bikes the news would have us believe, at the school near where i work kids regularly ride straight into the road without looking or pausing and seem to not know how to ride in a striaght line.

Good education on both sides of this debate are needed.
right folks....lets calm down and stop the anti-car thing yet again. No arrests were made..which implies the driver wasnt' at fault. Also the teacher "believes she was in the cycle lane" and yet doesnt know what happens...which also implies hearsay and didnt actually witness a thing. Poor journalism and very one-sided. yes it's very sad and i'm sure the facts will come out soon. also...making an area a 20 limit from a 30 still wont stop the people driving at 40mph will it? if they speed, they'll speed no matter what the speed is, though speed has not even been stated as a factor in this incident. kids arent the little angels on bikes the news would have us believe, at the school near where i work kids regularly ride straight into the road without looking or pausing and seem to not know how to ride in a striaght line. Good education on both sides of this debate are needed. wallingford1

12:19pm Fri 3 Jul 09

wallingford1 says...

also..this quote

"He said £35,000 had been set aside for improvements to cycle routes in Abingdon and officers were exploring measures to improve road safety around Larkmead School.

Susan Tranter, headteacher of Fitzharrys, said: “If every road had a cycle way, that would be a significant way forward but that would not be enough."

the accident appears to have happened in a cycle lane, so could someone explain exactly how a cycle lane is supposed to help?
also..this quote "He said £35,000 had been set aside for improvements to cycle routes in Abingdon and officers were exploring measures to improve road safety around Larkmead School. Susan Tranter, headteacher of Fitzharrys, said: “If every road had a cycle way, that would be a significant way forward but that would not be enough." the accident appears to have happened in a cycle lane, so could someone explain exactly how a cycle lane is supposed to help? wallingford1

1:40pm Fri 3 Jul 09

Danny A says...

There is only one victim tragic incidents like this. Whilst it may not be possible to attribute blame at this point it should always be clear where the responsibility ultimately lies.
There is only one victim tragic incidents like this. Whilst it may not be possible to attribute blame at this point it should always be clear where the responsibility ultimately lies. Danny A

2:10pm Fri 3 Jul 09

carioca says...

Dear Wallingford. Please stay in Wallingford, don't come speeding to Abingdon. If you do I hope you get caught and lose your licence. To all the car drivers that are more concerned about the speed they can drive, or their precious cars, you are a selfish bunch. Most drivers drive too quickly, this is what kills. The cycle lanes we have in Abingdon are a joke, and make life even more dangerous for pedestrians and bike. Anyone that thinks dividing a pavement in halve is going to make life safer is delusional. The only solution is to narrow roads and reduce the speed limit. The council is run by car based people who have no idea how to make cycling safer, but don't have a problem with roads that have turned the town into a race track. Lets see MORE speed camera, and raise the fine to a driving ban.

When a car hits a bike it largely results in a death. If you are in the minority that give bikes space, are patient on fast roads like Stratton way, allow time on roundabouts, then good on you. There are a few idiots on bikes true, but if you cycle safely and legally then you deserve to be respected by other road users. 20mph should be compulsory outside all schools and residential areas. And if you don't like it motorists that is tough.
Dear Wallingford. Please stay in Wallingford, don't come speeding to Abingdon. If you do I hope you get caught and lose your licence. To all the car drivers that are more concerned about the speed they can drive, or their precious cars, you are a selfish bunch. Most drivers drive too quickly, this is what kills. The cycle lanes we have in Abingdon are a joke, and make life even more dangerous for pedestrians and bike. Anyone that thinks dividing a pavement in halve is going to make life safer is delusional. The only solution is to narrow roads and reduce the speed limit. The council is run by car based people who have no idea how to make cycling safer, but don't have a problem with roads that have turned the town into a race track. Lets see MORE speed camera, and raise the fine to a driving ban. When a car hits a bike it largely results in a death. If you are in the minority that give bikes space, are patient on fast roads like Stratton way, allow time on roundabouts, then good on you. There are a few idiots on bikes true, but if you cycle safely and legally then you deserve to be respected by other road users. 20mph should be compulsory outside all schools and residential areas. And if you don't like it motorists that is tough. carioca

2:12pm Fri 3 Jul 09

Paul, Abingdon says...

I am obviously very sad to hear about the young girls death, but a raft of so-called traffic calming measures is not the answer. We must wait to hear the facts. It would appear that excess speed was not the issue, nor that the van mounted the kerb and struck the child, otherwise the Police would have made an arrest. It is likely that this is a very tragic accident and involved the rider losing control or concentration and riding into the path of the vehicle. I always get nervous driving past the entrance to the bridge on Copenhagen Drive as children, obviously excited to be out of school, seem to explode out of the entrance/exit that is only feet from the side of the road. Maybe a re-siting of the bridge entrance/exit is called for, or at least more money to for better road safety campaigns? Whatever happens it is too late for this child, but we must examine the facts and learn lessons from the tragedy.
I am obviously very sad to hear about the young girls death, but a raft of so-called traffic calming measures is not the answer. We must wait to hear the facts. It would appear that excess speed was not the issue, nor that the van mounted the kerb and struck the child, otherwise the Police would have made an arrest. It is likely that this is a very tragic accident and involved the rider losing control or concentration and riding into the path of the vehicle. I always get nervous driving past the entrance to the bridge on Copenhagen Drive as children, obviously excited to be out of school, seem to explode out of the entrance/exit that is only feet from the side of the road. Maybe a re-siting of the bridge entrance/exit is called for, or at least more money to for better road safety campaigns? Whatever happens it is too late for this child, but we must examine the facts and learn lessons from the tragedy. Paul, Abingdon

2:28pm Fri 3 Jul 09

William Bonnie says...

Look, the concrete blocks damage car tyres, full stop, any speed. I don't care about the cost of tyres. If those who ranted at what I said had actually read it they'd have seen I was talking about dangerous invisible damage to tyres which could cause a crash. To create this damage voluntarily is disturbing, to put it mildly. The blocks are also a considerable cause of pollution. I have ridden a bike, a motorbike and driven a car in Abingdon and the cycle ways are pretty blooming good
Look, the concrete blocks damage car tyres, full stop, any speed. I don't care about the cost of tyres. If those who ranted at what I said had actually read it they'd have seen I was talking about dangerous invisible damage to tyres which could cause a crash. To create this damage voluntarily is disturbing, to put it mildly. The blocks are also a considerable cause of pollution. I have ridden a bike, a motorbike and driven a car in Abingdon and the cycle ways are pretty blooming good William Bonnie

2:28pm Fri 3 Jul 09

wallingford1 says...

Carioca, get your facts straight. I'm not saying speeding is good by any means, mearly stating that people who speed will speed wether the speed limit is 30 or 40.
Carioca, get your facts straight. I'm not saying speeding is good by any means, mearly stating that people who speed will speed wether the speed limit is 30 or 40. wallingford1

2:37pm Fri 3 Jul 09

michelle.m says...

My daughter and I regularly cycle from Shippon to her school in North Abingdon. One of the most dangerous situations for cyclists, and one that is so easily rectified, is motorists who don't indicate on (or off ) roundabouts, making it very difficult to assess when it's safe to cross - so safety experts, simple signs reminding motorists to indicate could save lives. Sadly not for Ty-Ree (and I accept that as yet there is no explanation here and the accident didn't happen on a roundabout), my heartfelt sympathy goes to her parents and brother.
My daughter and I regularly cycle from Shippon to her school in North Abingdon. One of the most dangerous situations for cyclists, and one that is so easily rectified, is motorists who don't indicate on (or off ) roundabouts, making it very difficult to assess when it's safe to cross - so safety experts, simple signs reminding motorists to indicate could save lives. Sadly not for Ty-Ree (and I accept that as yet there is no explanation here and the accident didn't happen on a roundabout), my heartfelt sympathy goes to her parents and brother. michelle.m

3:05pm Fri 3 Jul 09

mechcol says...

William Bonnie wrote:
Look, the concrete blocks damage car tyres, full stop, any speed. I don't care about the cost of tyres. If those who ranted at what I said had actually read it they'd have seen I was talking about dangerous invisible damage to tyres which could cause a crash. To create this damage voluntarily is disturbing, to put it mildly. The blocks are also a considerable cause of pollution. I have ridden a bike, a motorbike and driven a car in Abingdon and the cycle ways are pretty blooming good
William Bonnie you are talking out your a*** ,I have been in Car trade 25 years + ,yes these bumps contribute to wear and tear especially if you dont slow down and to say there is invisible damage to tyres where is the proof there is none unless u drive like a pratt ..
[quote][p][bold]William Bonnie[/bold] wrote: Look, the concrete blocks damage car tyres, full stop, any speed. I don't care about the cost of tyres. If those who ranted at what I said had actually read it they'd have seen I was talking about dangerous invisible damage to tyres which could cause a crash. To create this damage voluntarily is disturbing, to put it mildly. The blocks are also a considerable cause of pollution. I have ridden a bike, a motorbike and driven a car in Abingdon and the cycle ways are pretty blooming good[/p][/quote]William Bonnie you are talking out your a*** ,I have been in Car trade 25 years + ,yes these bumps contribute to wear and tear especially if you dont slow down and to say there is invisible damage to tyres where is the proof there is none unless u drive like a pratt .. mechcol

3:47pm Fri 3 Jul 09

Paul, Abingdon says...

Despite the slightly over-the-top rhetoric, I must say Bart's underlying point is a valid one. In any incident involving a car and a bike there seems to be a bias towards automatically blaming the motorist with no sanctions for the cyclist. Having lived in Oxford for 5 years before moving to Abingdon I have to say that cyclists here are poles apart from the maniacs that ride around Oxford. I very rarely see bikes in Oxford with lights; frequently witness cyclists plough through red lights at busy junctions only to then verbally abuse the car driver who has to swerve to avoid them, or commits the even bigger crime of pressing the car horn!! Cyclists and motorists alike just need to have a bit more respect for each other, and try to anticipate danger before it arises. The idea of banning the car is ridiculous. As a disabled man I don't have the luxury of being able to choose a bike, and don't start me on the pros & cons of mobility scooters, or Kamikaze pavement drivers as I like to call them! I'd much rather push myself around the shops in a traditional wheelchair rather than risk the sort of damage I've seen result when a scooter clips a pedestrian. My quality of life is greatly improved by the freedom of movement a car gives me. Unfortunately, I fear this online debate has somehow lost its focus and degenerated into a battle between the motorist and the cyclist, but hell we all like a good bun fight so GAME ON!!! :-)
Despite the slightly over-the-top rhetoric, I must say Bart's underlying point is a valid one. In any incident involving a car and a bike there seems to be a bias towards automatically blaming the motorist with no sanctions for the cyclist. Having lived in Oxford for 5 years before moving to Abingdon I have to say that cyclists here are poles apart from the maniacs that ride around Oxford. I very rarely see bikes in Oxford with lights; frequently witness cyclists plough through red lights at busy junctions only to then verbally abuse the car driver who has to swerve to avoid them, or commits the even bigger crime of pressing the car horn!! Cyclists and motorists alike just need to have a bit more respect for each other, and try to anticipate danger before it arises. The idea of banning the car is ridiculous. As a disabled man I don't have the luxury of being able to choose a bike, and don't start me on the pros & cons of mobility scooters, or Kamikaze pavement drivers as I like to call them! I'd much rather push myself around the shops in a traditional wheelchair rather than risk the sort of damage I've seen result when a scooter clips a pedestrian. My quality of life is greatly improved by the freedom of movement a car gives me. Unfortunately, I fear this online debate has somehow lost its focus and degenerated into a battle between the motorist and the cyclist, but hell we all like a good bun fight so GAME ON!!! :-) Paul, Abingdon

3:57pm Fri 3 Jul 09

William Bonnie says...

mechcol I expect you've felt sick on a plane ocassionally so that would make you an aviation medicine expert.
I suggest if you want concrete blocks all over your road you have them. I'd prefer not to have them because I don't want to be thrown about and hurt, particularly on the Evans Lane bus at Kidlington and because I hate the fascist controlling creatures that put them in (and want to criminalise mums for trying to get their child into a decent school- to give another example of the same mindset)
mechcol I expect you've felt sick on a plane ocassionally so that would make you an aviation medicine expert. I suggest if you want concrete blocks all over your road you have them. I'd prefer not to have them because I don't want to be thrown about and hurt, particularly on the Evans Lane bus at Kidlington and because I hate the fascist controlling creatures that put them in (and want to criminalise mums for trying to get their child into a decent school- to give another example of the same mindset) William Bonnie

4:21pm Fri 3 Jul 09

carioca says...

These comments sound more an anti-bike thing. These page read more like a Daily Mail editorial. I am sick and tired by the self-righteous motorists that believe the road belongs to them, and that cyclists are some type of wierdo green hippies. I cycle defensively, out far enough in the road to be seen and not mowed down by speeding traffic, I look behind me all the time, never turn out infront of a car that does not have time to slow down, and do not risks. By and large most drivers don;t give a monkeys, drive too quickly, never indicate, never allow enough space. The speed limit is the law, yet it is hardly enforced, and some drivers seem to think it their duty to break it. What a bunch of complete hypocrites you all are.
These comments sound more an anti-bike thing. These page read more like a Daily Mail editorial. I am sick and tired by the self-righteous motorists that believe the road belongs to them, and that cyclists are some type of wierdo green hippies. I cycle defensively, out far enough in the road to be seen and not mowed down by speeding traffic, I look behind me all the time, never turn out infront of a car that does not have time to slow down, and do not risks. By and large most drivers don;t give a monkeys, drive too quickly, never indicate, never allow enough space. The speed limit is the law, yet it is hardly enforced, and some drivers seem to think it their duty to break it. What a bunch of complete hypocrites you all are. carioca

4:36pm Fri 3 Jul 09

mrspacebar says...

Well what a double-sided argument this is!!! I reported the the speeding and overtaking on this road to Thames Valley Police safer roads campaign recently and was asked to give times and dates before they would consider taking any action, and yet i was overtaken outside the police station by a speeding bmw.
Road safety is a two-way thing ,motorists need to slow down ,obey road markings,signs and the highway code and cyclists need to read the highway code to realise the rules also apply to them and the police need to enforce the highway code, i recently watched a car make an illegal right turn into Marcham Road hospital while a police car sat behind it waiting to get past.
Unfortunately this governments obsession with cameras instead of traffic officers in cars has meant the standard of driving and cycling are now dire.
And yes i do know what i am talking about as i am a DSA ADI.
Well what a double-sided argument this is!!! I reported the the speeding and overtaking on this road to Thames Valley Police safer roads campaign recently and was asked to give times and dates before they would consider taking any action, and yet i was overtaken outside the police station by a speeding bmw. Road safety is a two-way thing ,motorists need to slow down ,obey road markings,signs and the highway code and cyclists need to read the highway code to realise the rules also apply to them and the police need to enforce the highway code, i recently watched a car make an illegal right turn into Marcham Road hospital while a police car sat behind it waiting to get past. Unfortunately this governments obsession with cameras instead of traffic officers in cars has meant the standard of driving and cycling are now dire. And yes i do know what i am talking about as i am a DSA ADI. mrspacebar

4:36pm Fri 3 Jul 09

Paul, Abingdon says...

BUNS AWAY!!! Saint Carioca 1, Petrol-Head Daily Mail Readers 0........ it's amazing really, but I've never met a motorist who admits to speeding or a cyclist who admits to jumping a red light but I see them every day?! It seems that everyone on this site must be the perfect ambassador for their preferred mode of transport?
BUNS AWAY!!! Saint Carioca 1, Petrol-Head Daily Mail Readers 0........ it's amazing really, but I've never met a motorist who admits to speeding or a cyclist who admits to jumping a red light but I see them every day?! It seems that everyone on this site must be the perfect ambassador for their preferred mode of transport? Paul, Abingdon

4:38pm Fri 3 Jul 09

Grumpy09 says...

My thoughts are with the family of the girl. In all of your debates about the road surface remember someone is without their little girl tonight.....
My thoughts are with the family of the girl. In all of your debates about the road surface remember someone is without their little girl tonight..... Grumpy09

5:21pm Fri 3 Jul 09

mumofchildren says...

How terribly sad for this family.This is the second child who has lost their life this year whilst cycling to or from school. Headteachers and Governors of schools in Abingdon have repeatedly called for greater measures to ensure the safety of their pupils whilst travelling to school,either with more pedestrian crossings outside schools or at busy junctions on the way to school. All of which appear to have fallen on deaf ears at the local council departments.Whilst I understand the need to establish the facts in this tragic situation, more needs to be done quickly to increase the road safety for our children in Abingdon.
How terribly sad for this family.This is the second child who has lost their life this year whilst cycling to or from school. Headteachers and Governors of schools in Abingdon have repeatedly called for greater measures to ensure the safety of their pupils whilst travelling to school,either with more pedestrian crossings outside schools or at busy junctions on the way to school. All of which appear to have fallen on deaf ears at the local council departments.Whilst I understand the need to establish the facts in this tragic situation, more needs to be done quickly to increase the road safety for our children in Abingdon. mumofchildren

6:24pm Fri 3 Jul 09

Miaa says...

I am a pupil at larkmead school. I am also in yr 7 but i was not very close to her. Despite this fact i think it is stupid that you are all arguing over this. I admit most kids at our school do act like idiots but Ty-ree was not like this. She was very sensible and so was Sarah Waterhouse. I do not think there is any question about it. The roads are dangerous. I know that when i walk home the roads are very scary places to cross or even walk beside. We had a whole school assembely today and our yr 7 celebration was cancelled. Everyone was crying. I hope that something is done and us kids dont have to go through this kind of pain again. It is horrible loosing someone. What would you prefer to loose. A car tyre and a childs life?
I am a pupil at larkmead school. I am also in yr 7 but i was not very close to her. Despite this fact i think it is stupid that you are all arguing over this. I admit most kids at our school do act like idiots but Ty-ree was not like this. She was very sensible and so was Sarah Waterhouse. I do not think there is any question about it. The roads are dangerous. I know that when i walk home the roads are very scary places to cross or even walk beside. We had a whole school assembely today and our yr 7 celebration was cancelled. Everyone was crying. I hope that something is done and us kids dont have to go through this kind of pain again. It is horrible loosing someone. What would you prefer to loose. A car tyre and a childs life? Miaa

7:58pm Fri 3 Jul 09

andrew232323 says...

In theory, cycle and road traffic should not meet on that section of Copenhagen Drive. I think the source of the problem is the lack of road awareness from some cyclists, at the moment there are no regulations and specified qualification standard for cyclists to use the roads. As a professional driver as well as a motorcyclist, I have observed cyclist riding behaviour through out Oxford for sometime now, I have noticed a major possible fatal mistake committed by many cyclists: Changing Direction Without Looking. Many cyclists have signalled their intention to change direction, but very few have actually checked the traffic behind them, which is a very dangerous or even fatal error.
All road users should be provided with training, and tested on their ability to meet a specified standard to enable them to use the road safely.
In theory, cycle and road traffic should not meet on that section of Copenhagen Drive. I think the source of the problem is the lack of road awareness from some cyclists, at the moment there are no regulations and specified qualification standard for cyclists to use the roads. As a professional driver as well as a motorcyclist, I have observed cyclist riding behaviour through out Oxford for sometime now, I have noticed a major possible fatal mistake committed by many cyclists: Changing Direction Without Looking. Many cyclists have signalled their intention to change direction, but very few have actually checked the traffic behind them, which is a very dangerous or even fatal error. All road users should be provided with training, and tested on their ability to meet a specified standard to enable them to use the road safely. andrew232323

4:59am Sat 4 Jul 09

Old zimner says...

I have a confession to make. I am a driver, and I sometimes break the speed limit. That is a weight off of my shoulders. Any others with a confesion to make? P.S. who would have thought that young Bart simpson could be so sensible?
I have a confession to make. I am a driver, and I sometimes break the speed limit. That is a weight off of my shoulders. Any others with a confesion to make? P.S. who would have thought that young Bart simpson could be so sensible? Old zimner

8:42am Sat 4 Jul 09

christian27 says...

Needless to say that this terrible tragedy should never have happened. I am a driver and a cyclist in Abingdon, and I do worry seriously about children cycling in the town. Cyclists are not being given the priority they need. Many roads are narrow and in these areas we should colour the road in green showing priority to the cycling. So many time cars and vans have been zipping fast less than 2 feet from me, it is dangerous! I do find driving in Abingdon horrible (but I still have too unfortunately), and I also find cycling difficult, common councillors, please take your town in hands, cycle around regularly and you will know what are the spots that seriously need improvements!!
Needless to say that this terrible tragedy should never have happened. I am a driver and a cyclist in Abingdon, and I do worry seriously about children cycling in the town. Cyclists are not being given the priority they need. Many roads are narrow and in these areas we should colour the road in green showing priority to the cycling. So many time cars and vans have been zipping fast less than 2 feet from me, it is dangerous! I do find driving in Abingdon horrible (but I still have too unfortunately), and I also find cycling difficult, common councillors, please take your town in hands, cycle around regularly and you will know what are the spots that seriously need improvements!! christian27

4:44pm Sat 4 Jul 09

tribalamazonian says...

Miaa wrote:
I am a pupil at larkmead school. I am also in yr 7 but i was not very close to her. Despite this fact i think it is stupid that you are all arguing over this. I admit most kids at our school do act like idiots but Ty-ree was not like this. She was very sensible and so was Sarah Waterhouse. I do not think there is any question about it. The roads are dangerous. I know that when i walk home the roads are very scary places to cross or even walk beside. We had a whole school assembely today and our yr 7 celebration was cancelled. Everyone was crying. I hope that something is done and us kids dont have to go through this kind of pain again. It is horrible loosing someone. What would you prefer to loose. A car tyre and a childs life?
I'm afraid that most articles on this website result in people being at one another's throats and the original article is forgotten about as the usual arguments come out time and again. Roads like Copenhagen Drive have always been dangerous for cyclists, motorists and lets not forget pedestrians, but many contributors here see it appropriate to decide all motorists are to be pilloried because of the actions of a small minority (and they have the same contempt for cyclists). Until we know the facts, this is a tragic accident and no-one can be blamed until we know exactly what happened.
[quote][p][bold]Miaa[/bold] wrote: I am a pupil at larkmead school. I am also in yr 7 but i was not very close to her. Despite this fact i think it is stupid that you are all arguing over this. I admit most kids at our school do act like idiots but Ty-ree was not like this. She was very sensible and so was Sarah Waterhouse. I do not think there is any question about it. The roads are dangerous. I know that when i walk home the roads are very scary places to cross or even walk beside. We had a whole school assembely today and our yr 7 celebration was cancelled. Everyone was crying. I hope that something is done and us kids dont have to go through this kind of pain again. It is horrible loosing someone. What would you prefer to loose. A car tyre and a childs life?[/p][/quote]I'm afraid that most articles on this website result in people being at one another's throats and the original article is forgotten about as the usual arguments come out time and again. Roads like Copenhagen Drive have always been dangerous for cyclists, motorists and lets not forget pedestrians, but many contributors here see it appropriate to decide all motorists are to be pilloried because of the actions of a small minority (and they have the same contempt for cyclists). Until we know the facts, this is a tragic accident and no-one can be blamed until we know exactly what happened. tribalamazonian

7:20pm Sat 4 Jul 09

Wizwam says...

My blood is boiling from SOME of these comments. Another young girl has died and talk of tyre damage is being quoted, surely if you adhere to the speed limits there should be no damage to tyres internally or otherwise. We are constantly being urged to be green and not use our cars as much and as a mother of 3 young boys I feel we should walk or cycle to school every day, but sadly I am putting my boys lives at risk doing so. I urge anyone questioning whether changes need to be made to ride a bike around Abingdon for a week, perhaps then you will see this from a different perspective and have some sympathy. It may be that some cyclists need to take more care but in my experience it is drivers who need educating. It is extremely intimidating on the roads. A cyclist is very vulnerable, and forced to ride in the gutter where there are drains etc to negotiate even where there are marked cycle paths. On many roads including Boxhill and Faringdon Road it is trecharous to ride in the cycle paths.
Anyone more concerned about their cars that implementing safer roads, I hope it is never your child or a family member involved in an accident similar to this.
My thoughts go out to this young girls family.
My blood is boiling from SOME of these comments. Another young girl has died and talk of tyre damage is being quoted, surely if you adhere to the speed limits there should be no damage to tyres internally or otherwise. We are constantly being urged to be green and not use our cars as much and as a mother of 3 young boys I feel we should walk or cycle to school every day, but sadly I am putting my boys lives at risk doing so. I urge anyone questioning whether changes need to be made to ride a bike around Abingdon for a week, perhaps then you will see this from a different perspective and have some sympathy. It may be that some cyclists need to take more care but in my experience it is drivers who need educating. It is extremely intimidating on the roads. A cyclist is very vulnerable, and forced to ride in the gutter where there are drains etc to negotiate even where there are marked cycle paths. On many roads including Boxhill and Faringdon Road it is trecharous to ride in the cycle paths. Anyone more concerned about their cars that implementing safer roads, I hope it is never your child or a family member involved in an accident similar to this. My thoughts go out to this young girls family. Wizwam

7:23pm Sat 4 Jul 09

vjp says...

this is very sad.our sympathy to the parents. Abt the deabte : in general both the motorists and cyclists need to learn the rules. Sometimes cyclists forget that the motorists have a blind spot and can't see them at all. Motorists are supposed to watch out to avoid such blind spot related accidents, but how many take notice. Talking about motorists, parents doing the school run are so careless-- come to Drayton CP school and you will be surprised to see how badly some parents drive. A tragedy is waiting to happen in Drayton too.
this is very sad.our sympathy to the parents. Abt the deabte : in general both the motorists and cyclists need to learn the rules. Sometimes cyclists forget that the motorists have a blind spot and can't see them at all. Motorists are supposed to watch out to avoid such blind spot related accidents, but how many take notice. Talking about motorists, parents doing the school run are so careless-- come to Drayton CP school and you will be surprised to see how badly some parents drive. A tragedy is waiting to happen in Drayton too. vjp

7:40pm Sat 4 Jul 09

Wizwam says...

Very sad but true, I guess Drayton is no different from anywhere else. It seems that many parents driving their children to school are oblivious to anyone other than themselves,luckily their children are safe in their cars and at little or no risk of injury in a collision. On more than one occasion I have been walking down St Johns road with my children in front of me on their bikes and a car has mounted the pavement between us to make way for an oncoming car without even slowing down. I am incensed at this ignorance. I appreciate that parents have to work and need to drive their children all I ask for is a little consideration.
Very sad but true, I guess Drayton is no different from anywhere else. It seems that many parents driving their children to school are oblivious to anyone other than themselves,luckily their children are safe in their cars and at little or no risk of injury in a collision. On more than one occasion I have been walking down St Johns road with my children in front of me on their bikes and a car has mounted the pavement between us to make way for an oncoming car without even slowing down. I am incensed at this ignorance. I appreciate that parents have to work and need to drive their children all I ask for is a little consideration. Wizwam

9:30pm Sat 4 Jul 09

Maisieeeex says...

im maisie. ty-ree used to come to my school. and when i woke up on thursday morning my mum gave me the devistating news. i couldnt believe it, i was in so much shock! i thought something like this has never happened to me before. i new ty-ree partridge and now she's not here! its not right. but i wanted to have my say on saying, ty-ree was a lovely girl so caring and was a laugh. my love is with her family at this sad time. R.I.P, we will miss you ty-ree! ****
im maisie. ty-ree used to come to my school. and when i woke up on thursday morning my mum gave me the devistating news. i couldnt believe it, i was in so much shock! i thought something like this has never happened to me before. i new ty-ree partridge and now she's not here! its not right. but i wanted to have my say on saying, ty-ree was a lovely girl so caring and was a laugh. my love is with her family at this sad time. R.I.P, we will miss you ty-ree! **** Maisieeeex

9:40pm Sat 4 Jul 09

Maisieeeex says...

im maisie. and ty-ree partridge used to go to my school she was the year above me. then ty-ree moved away. then when i found out the news about what happened i felt really sad, knowing i new ty-ree. so me and my friends all give our love to ty-ree's family at this sad time. and ty-ree will be missed! :( R.I.P ****
im maisie. and ty-ree partridge used to go to my school she was the year above me. then ty-ree moved away. then when i found out the news about what happened i felt really sad, knowing i new ty-ree. so me and my friends all give our love to ty-ree's family at this sad time. and ty-ree will be missed! :( R.I.P **** Maisieeeex

9:44pm Sat 4 Jul 09

Maisieeeex says...

i left the comment above but im posting another one. me and my friend daisy wanted to post one together. we both went school with ty-ree and she was the year above us and when we found out the news. we were so shocked, it was un-real. we both want to send are love to ty-ree's family at this very sad time as do all my friends! you'll ve missed ty-ree, R.I.P. maisie and daisy xxxxx
i left the comment above but im posting another one. me and my friend daisy wanted to post one together. we both went school with ty-ree and she was the year above us and when we found out the news. we were so shocked, it was un-real. we both want to send are love to ty-ree's family at this very sad time as do all my friends! you'll ve missed ty-ree, R.I.P. maisie and daisy xxxxx Maisieeeex

9:47am Mon 6 Jul 09

carioca says...

vjp. I take the point about the problem of the blind spot. My response to this is during the driving test the instructor should test for awareness of this. I would also add that many motorist do not acknowledge a cyclists presence until too late, generally due to excessive speed. Bikes are virtually invisible to most drivers. I was hit on the side by a car driving on a cycle lane, on Stratton way, and the driver did not even notice. This town needs drastic action to slow traffic down, and make more space for all cyclist. Cars should never have to mount the pavement.
vjp. I take the point about the problem of the blind spot. My response to this is during the driving test the instructor should test for awareness of this. I would also add that many motorist do not acknowledge a cyclists presence until too late, generally due to excessive speed. Bikes are virtually invisible to most drivers. I was hit on the side by a car driving on a cycle lane, on Stratton way, and the driver did not even notice. This town needs drastic action to slow traffic down, and make more space for all cyclist. Cars should never have to mount the pavement. carioca

9:54am Mon 6 Jul 09

carioca says...

vjp. Saw your other comment on this story. Yes totally agree. Council has their head in the sand about this issue. Areas around all schools, Fairachres and Town centre need attention. Getting from Ock street to Abbey Gardens safely is virtually impossible, which is why so many people wrongly cycle on pavements. Even the national sustrans cycle lane through the town forces a cyclist to go the wrong way up a one way street. If any of the Daily Mail loving drivers want to see just how bad this is, try cycling from West St Helens Street to Bridge Street, then you will see how bad things are.
vjp. Saw your other comment on this story. Yes totally agree. Council has their head in the sand about this issue. Areas around all schools, Fairachres and Town centre need attention. Getting from Ock street to Abbey Gardens safely is virtually impossible, which is why so many people wrongly cycle on pavements. Even the national sustrans cycle lane through the town forces a cyclist to go the wrong way up a one way street. If any of the Daily Mail loving drivers want to see just how bad this is, try cycling from West St Helens Street to Bridge Street, then you will see how bad things are. carioca

9:22am Tue 7 Jul 09

Abingdon_born_Cowley says...

I walk to the bus on the Oxford Road everyday and what amazes me more than anything is the lack of Helmets on these school kids. Surely the school runs a no helmet, no cycle policy? Also I would urge parents to get their kid a helmet and make them wear it, cars don't always notice these youngsters and very often, although I have no idea if this was the case with this tragic waste, the kids don't even look.

I feel so sad that this has happened so soon after another life was lost in a similar way.
I walk to the bus on the Oxford Road everyday and what amazes me more than anything is the lack of Helmets on these school kids. Surely the school runs a no helmet, no cycle policy? Also I would urge parents to get their kid a helmet and make them wear it, cars don't always notice these youngsters and very often, although I have no idea if this was the case with this tragic waste, the kids don't even look. I feel so sad that this has happened so soon after another life was lost in a similar way. Abingdon_born_Cowley

10:28am Wed 8 Jul 09

Old zimner says...

A-B-C. Good point. If after all their safety ranting the heads of the schools do not operate a No Helmet, No Bike policy, then it seems to me they are using this tragic accident to promote themselves in the press without doing the 1 thing they can actually do themselves to increase safety for their pupils.
A-B-C. Good point. If after all their safety ranting the heads of the schools do not operate a No Helmet, No Bike policy, then it seems to me they are using this tragic accident to promote themselves in the press without doing the 1 thing they can actually do themselves to increase safety for their pupils. Old zimner

2:05pm Wed 8 Jul 09

carioca says...

There is no doubt that helmets are a good thing. But the speed of traffic is the biggest factor in cycle related tragedies. If a cyclist is hit by a car at 20 mph a fatality is rare, at 30 mph is almost certain. Schools need to make parents that drive their kids to school more aware of speed.
There is no doubt that helmets are a good thing. But the speed of traffic is the biggest factor in cycle related tragedies. If a cyclist is hit by a car at 20 mph a fatality is rare, at 30 mph is almost certain. Schools need to make parents that drive their kids to school more aware of speed. carioca

2:40am Fri 10 Jul 09

Xander says...

To the above:

She was wearing a helmet. Helmets are not designed to help during collisions, only falls.

Also please, everyone here, can we stop trying to flog our personal ideologies.

This was a terrible tragedy. I cannot imagine the suffering Ty-ree's poor family and friends must be going through. My deepest sympathies go to them.
To the above: She was wearing a helmet. Helmets are not designed to help during collisions, only falls. Also please, everyone here, can we stop trying to flog our personal ideologies. This was a terrible tragedy. I cannot imagine the suffering Ty-ree's poor family and friends must be going through. My deepest sympathies go to them. Xander

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