Cycling safety concerns remain one year after fatal accident
Family of cyclist killed on Cambridgeshire road mark anniversary while calling for improved road safety measures
The wife of a cyclist killed in a road collision last year has spoken about her loss as the anniversary of his death approaches, calling for better road safety measures to prevent further tragedies.
Hazel Gough’s husband, Michael Gough, 65 from Rodney Road in Huntingdon, was the owner of Roadies Cycles in Hartford and a much-loved member of the community.
He died on 16 March last year while riding his bicycle.
As the family prepares to mark the anniversary, Hazel described the emotional toll it has taken.
“We’re having a little gathering at the ghost bike, where we’ve just had a new plaque put up,” she said.
“It was arranged by my daughter, and someone kindly did it for free, which was a really nice gesture.
"It’s hard because things are still ongoing, but life has to keep moving forward.”
Tributes from across the local community poured in for Michael at the time of his death. He was an avid cyclist and campaigner for safer streets and was posthumously awarded Camcycle’s Campaigner of the Year award for his work promoting safer roads.
“He would have hated receiving the award because he wasn’t someone who liked being at the forefront of things,” Hazel said.
“But he was always writing blogs and engaging in discussions about road safety. There’s still so much to be done, not just for cyclists, but for pedestrians and drivers too.”
Hazel expressed frustration over what she sees as gaps in road planning.
“They’re not looking at the whole picture,” she said.
“New roads often only have cycle paths on one side, which makes it difficult for both cyclists and pedestrians. More needs to be done to improve planning and safety.”
The impact of Michael’s death has extended beyond his immediate family, with concerns over road safety continuing to be raised across the county.
“When you look at the number of accidents and the effect on families, it’s unbelievable,” Hazel said.
“It would be nice if people had more consideration on the roads. There’s a lot of road rage out there, and some of the comments on social media can be really upsetting. People need to see the whole picture.”
While Hazel supports ongoing campaigns for safer roads, she acknowledged that she is currently unable to take an active role.
“I follow the groups and give input where I can,” she said. “Not as much as Michael did, but the whole family tries to contribute.”
As the family remembers Michael, Hazel thanked those who have supported them over the past year.
“I’d just like to thank everybody who has been there for us,” she said.
“It really means a lot.”
A minute's silence and a short vigil are due to be held in memory of Mike will take place at Sebastopol Cannon on George Street, Huntingdon today.
We have approached Cambridgeshire County Council about their plans to improve safety for cyclists.