A cyclist taking part in a time trial on the A34 died after being struck by a van, an inquest heard, writes Rebecca Smith.

Stephen Hawkes, 61, died from multiple injuries after the van driven by Christopher O'Connor hit him early on May 7 near Hinksey, Oxford.

Mr O'Connor, of Kidsgrove, Staffordshire, told Oxford Coroner's Court yesterday (February 1) that he was on his way to a market in Southampton and following a white Vauxhall van when it suddenly swerved away from the hard shoulder.

Mr O'Connor said only then did he see the cyclist and tried to steer away from him, but the side of the van hit Mr Hawkes.

Mr Hawkes, of Peartree Lane, Newbury, died later at the scene. The Vauxhall van driver was never traced.

Mr O'Connor said he stopped, exchanged details with a taxi driver, who had stopped to help Mr Hawkes, and then carried on to Southampton. Police traced him the following week and he was interviewed.

Mr O'Connor said: "I am very very sorry. There is nothing I can say that can replace him. It has been on my conscience I am certainly not going back driving this year."

Mr O'Connor is due to appear at Wantage Magistrates' Court on February 20 charged with careless driving and failing to report an accident.

Coroner Nicholas Gardiner recorded a verdict of accidental death.