Tributes pour in for talented cyclist Sean

Tributes have been paid to ‘honest and genuine’ Haverhill cyclist Sean Hickey who died following a collision in Clare.

The 44-year-old, of Connaught Road, was riding his bicycle on the A1092 Nethergate Street in Clare at 3.30pm on Sunday May 1 when he was involved in a collision with a Citroen Xsara Picasso.

He was pronounced dead at the scene.

His family have paid tribute to ‘friendly and outgoing’ Sean.

“Sean was a much loved son and brother.

“He grew up in Haverhill and although lived in Wales for a while moved back to Haverhill a few years ago.

“Sean was a keen cyclist and had many friends within the cycling community, taking part in many cycle rides.

“Sean was a friendly and outgoing person, he would help anyone who needed him.

“He had a lot of time for his family and looked after them. “Sean will be greatly missed by all that knew him.”

Sean was a member of the Haverhill Cycling Club and holds the club’s current time trial record.

Friend and club committee member Simon Edwards said: “He was honest and genuine and his passion was cycling.

“You couldn’t meet a nicer guy inside or outside of cycling.

“He was a great motivator.

“He would start five minutes behind everyone and because he was so good he would overtake us all.

“He would then stop and encourage people to keep on going.

“Then he would set off again and be way off in the distance again.

“But he would then be at the finishing line cheering us on.”

Rob Elliot, the cycling club’s chairman, paid tribute to Sean on the club’s website.

“Sean was out doing what he loved the most and his cycling achievements and support of Haverhill Cycling Club has left a void which will struggle to be filled, always friendly and keen to help out Sean will be sorely missed.

“Our thoughts and condolences go out to Sean’s family at this time.”

Tributes on the club’s Facebook page show how well regarded Sean was.

Philip Harriss wrote: “A good man, a good friend and awesome cyclist you will be missed by many I’m grateful that I knew him and had the chance to ride by his side.”

Marcus Macnamara said: “So sad to lose such a talent and genuinely nice guy. Ride high Sean, my thoughts go to your family.”

Lorraine Christopher wrote: “Rest in peace Sean, I’m so sorry to hear this tragic news.

“Cycling was your life, and you were so good at it. Such a kind, humble, easy going man. Will never forget your smile Sean.”

Graham Imms said: “So sorry to here this. Such a nice bloke.”

On Thursday May 6 around 20 riders from the club cycled to Clare to lay flowers and pay their respects.