James Atherton

James Atherton was tragically killed while out training in the New Forest on Sunday January 13th.The 25-year-old from Southampton who rode for VC ST Raphael was in a group heading towards Pennington when he was in collision with a Volkswagen Golf near the Hare and Hounds pub on Pitmore Lane, Sway, at around 10.50am.James was taken by the air ambulance to Southampton General Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.James, who had race at Ludgershall the previous day was studying for a PhD in medicine at Southampton University.
Police said the vehicle was being driven by a 57-year-old man from Evesham, Worcestershire, who was unhurt. Pitmore Lane was closed while police investigated the cause of the crash and arranged for the car and the bicycle to be recovered.Anyone who witnessed the collision is asked to contact the Totton Roads Policing Unit on 101, quoting Operation Baroque.



Friend and teammate, Adel Tyson-Bloor paid this moving tribute to her very good friend….
“James was one of life's genuine characters. He was instantly likeable and this made him very popular with anyone who crossed his path. He was kind and considerate and showed genuine interest in others. It was my pleasure to know James I never once saw him without a cheeky smile or laughing and I never heard him utter a single grumble. James seemed to thoroughly enjoy life. Due to injury, change of sports and lack of funds I don't think James really got to show everyone how strong he was in racing I am sure anyone who rode with him will agree with me. I think he will leave a hole in many people's life's and I am certain when he is remembered or talked about smiles will instantly appear. He was full of fun and my heart will sink whenever I go to races or rides where he would normally be. A tragic waste of one of life's good ones.

“My team mate, James Atherton, died at the age of 25 on Saturday doing what he loved; riding his bike. My thoughts are with his loved ones. Tragic. May he rest in peace. Be careful out there on your bicycles, friends.” Simon Brooks

“Whilst I have only known James for a couple of years since he moved from triathlon and joined VC to concentrate on cycle racing, he proved a valuable member of the team progressing up to 2nd category for 2013.
James was well liked by other riders and this is reflected by the number of people from within triathlon and cycling community who I have been contacted by since the tragic accident.
The thoughts of all our club members go to his family and girlfriend.” Mick Waite

“A wonderfully friendly guy. We always had a nice chat when we saw each other at training or races. He's riding in the clouds now. God bless you and may you forever rest in peace”. Sam

“James was a bright, energetic person with a fabulous sense of humour. A true ‘Lancashire lad’ with a passion for hard bicycle racing, and possibly even tougher training rides. James raced for us with gusto at the British University champs, and we thoroughly enjoyed his company on training rides. A dedicated athlete, talented academic and loyal friend, he will be sadly missed.
We wish to express our deepest condolences to James’ family and friends.”
From his friends at Southampton University Road Club

“I'm not sure I ever met someone so full of life. We are devastated, James. You will be sorely missed” Em

If you would like to add your own tribute to James on this page, just email me or text or call. 07977985933 moses.deane@virgin.net or message me on facebook