Paralympic Cyclist Crash: Edward Adams Jailed For Knocking Over Gold Medallist Simon Richardson

Farmer Jailed For Knocking Over Beijing Gold Medallist

A farmer who shattered a Paralympian's 2012 dream in a drink drive crash has been jailed for 18 months.

Medal winning cyclist Simon Richardson had been training for the London games near his home in Bridgend, south Wales, when 61-year-old Edward Adams knocked the sportsman over in his van before driving off.

Mr Richardson's catalogue of injuries included a fractured spine, broken pelvis, collapsed lung and perforated bowel.

After the crash, alcoholic Adams then rushed back home to hide his vehicle before pouring himself a glass of whisky - in a bid to try to disguise the fact he had been drinking before the collision, Cardiff Crown Court was told.

Cyclist Simon Richardson, knocked over by drunk driver Edward Adams, lights the Paralympics Cauldron in Cardiff

Judge Daniel Williams said Adams had shown limited empathy for his victim - and none of the courage and dignity displayed by Mr Richardson.

He said: "You first got into the car at 8.45am that morning and when you were breathalysed just after midday you were more than twice the legal drink drive limit.

"Mr Richardson was clearly visible - cycling close to the kerb and wearing bright clothing.

"Your claims that you were affected by sneezing and sunlight were wholly untrue.

"Your reaction to the accident and its aftermath could not be in greater contrast with the man that you had left injured.

"You took the opportunity to leave the scene - knowing you had caused the accident."

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