Friends rally round Elland dad-of-two left in coma after bike crash

Darren Speight who was hurt in the crash in Elland.

Cyclist Darren Speight, 41, lives in Elland and was almost home from a training ride when the crash happened on Lower Edge Road last Sunday night.

His bicycle and a motorbike collided and Darren’s bike then hit parked car.

He was rushed to hospital with life-threatening injuries and is currently in a coma in Leeds General Infirmary.

“He has a heart of gold,” said Chris Iredale, one of Darren’s close friends and fellow member of 3RT Cycling Club in Brighouse.

“He is always the first to help anyone out and always puts other people first.

“Darren is very well known. That’s one of the things that his family didn’t realise - how well known and well loved he is.”

A fundraising page to support self-employed flooring contractor Darren and his two daughters - 11-year-old Mia and 13-year-old Millie - has already raised over £13,000 since being set up last week.

Chris said Darren’s family have been amazed by the messages of support and pledges that have flooded in, not just from people who know Darren but from the cycling community and beyond.

“They want to say a big thank you,” he said.

Darren has taken part in many fundraising activities for various charities, including a ride for Overgate Hospice and a ride which involved sleeping rough for homeless charity Happy Days.

His mother, Eilleen Morton, said on the fundraising page: “I know how precious my son Darren is to me but I didn't realise just how many people thought so much about him as well. Thank you everyone for your prayers and good wishes.

“Come on son, you can do it. Can not wait for one of your beautiful big bear hugs. Love you so much.”

His daughters have also posted on the page: “Daddy Doo, this is a little poem just for you. Stay strong for us two, you have got this, we love you.”

To donate to the collection for Darren, visit www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/3rtdaz, Fundraising events are also being planned.

Police are appealing for anyone with information about the accident, which happened at around 10.23pm on Sunday, August 4, to call them on 101.