Cyclist who died during charity bike ride on A5 was a former professional footballer

A cyclist who died during a charity bike ride in North Wales has been named as former professional footballer, Karl Payne.

The 44-year-old was taking part in the 110-mile ride between Trent Vale to Llangollen and back in aid of Douglas Macmillan Hospice when he collapsed on the A5 near Chirk yesterday morning.

Mr Payne was affiliated with a string of clubs during his career including Burton Albion, Mickleover Sports FC, Gresley FC, Belper Town and Stapenhill FC.

Scores of tributes have been posted on social media including one from Rocester FC which read: “Devastating news reaching us that our former player and coach, Karl Payne has passed away.

“A lovely guy taken far too soon. RIP Karl.”

A statement on the Belvedere Park FC website said: “We are desperately saddened to hear of the tragic, sudden and untimely loss of Karl Payne, an ex coach/manager of Belvedere Park FC, and very well known to many of our members, including the club committee, team managers, parents and indeed players past and present of the club.

“Karl was extremely popular and very well respected amongst his peers – he gave years of selfless service to the club and was a superb Coach, as well as being a great friend to many, always having a laugh and kind, supportive word for all.

“All at the club would like to extend our sincerest and deepest condolences to the family Karl leaves behind – he will be sadly missed, fondly remembered, and will always be a part of the history of our club.

“RIP Karl Payne from everyone at Belvedere Park FC.”

Stapenhill FC tweeted: “All at the club are devastated to hear of the passing of former Swans player, coach and all round top man, Karl Payne. Taken far too soon.”

David Webster, chief executive of Douglas Macmillan Hospice, paid tribute to other riders who stopped to help at the scene.

He said: “I have been made aware that other participants in the event stopped and tried to help the cyclist whilst waiting for the arrival of the emergency services.

“We thank everyone for their kindness and genuine display of consideration for their fellow event participant, who was not known to them personally.

“We share their sadness and deep regret that nothing could be done to help the cyclist.

“Ultimately though, our thoughts and hearts go out to the family and friends of the cyclist, we extend our deepest condolences on their sad and untimely loss.”

Nick Evans, North Wales Police temporary superintendent, said: “Members of the public and the emergency services tried their very best to help the cyclist and I am very sad to say that their efforts were not successful.

“Our thoughts are with the gentleman’s family and friends.”

Anyone with information is urged to call police on 101 quoting incident reference number V065161.