A PROFESSIONAL cyclist who went headfirst over his handlebars when his wheel got stuck in a pothole in Pewsey is glad that the road has finally been repaired.

Chris Ward, 55, suffered a a torn rotator cuff in his shoulder, ripped muscles, cuts and bruises when the accident happened at the end of July in Milton Street, as he travelled from London to Bath for his daughter’s graduation ceremony.

Neighbours rushed out to give him first aid and a passing driver called 999. He was later collected by his wife and taken to Bath RUH.

People at the scene told him the road was an accident blackspot and similar crashes had happened with bikers in the last 12 months.

Despite Wiltshire Council originally saying that the road would not be repaired as it met all the required safety standards, the pothole has now been filled in.

Mr Ward said: “I am glad it has finally been fixed, and that no other accidents will be caused.

“However it is a real shame that it took me to have my accident for it to be fixed.

“Although I do cycle a lot, I don’t usually take that route, and apparently local cyclists know to avoid that road because of the pot hole.

“I am recovering from the cuts and bruises, but the damage to my shoulder is more long term and is still causing me a bit of trouble.”

Mr Ward has filed a claim with Wiltshire Council in the hope of getting compensation for his bike, which was severely damaged. He is currently awaiting a response.

A Wiltshire Council spokesman said: “We took the opportunity to repair this pothole while we had a crew scheduled to be in the area, to prevent further deterioration.

“We are aware of a claim relating to Milton Road but cannot comment further at this time while the claims process is ongoing.”