A BICYCLE removed from the scene of what became a fatal accident has been returned, police confirmed today (October 30).

The black cycle was being ridden by Stan Coates, on Burdon Lane, a country road near Doxford Park, on the outskirts of Sunderland, last Friday (October 26).

A collision took place involving Mr Coates and a passing car, near the junction leading to Burdon Village, at 4.45pm.

But as he and the driver were swapping details both were struck by a second vehicle.

Mr Coates, 55, of West Herrington, near Sunderland, suffered serious back and pelvic injuries.

He was attended to by paramedics at the scene before being flown by air ambulance to James Cook University Hospital, in Middlesbrough, where he was pronounced dead.

Bad weather in the vicinity prevented the ambulance helicopter crew making the shorter flight to Newcastle’s Royal Victoria Infirmary.

The 24-year-old driver of the first car involved in a collision with Mr Coates received hospital treatment for minor injuries.

Police investigating the accident said two men who passed the accident scene in a works-type van offered to take Mr Coates’ cycle home.

It was initially feared the cycle may have been stolen as it was not initially returned.

But Northumbria Police confirmed today (TUE) that the bike has now been recovered.

A force spokesman said it appears the man who returned it, did so, “with good intentions”.

Accident investigators made a further appeal to witnesses to either collision, or anyone who was using Burdon Lane, between 4pm and 5pm, on Friday.

They should contact the force on 101, and ask for extension 69191.