Top cyclist Laing ‘critical’ after lorry crash

Andy Laing still races at Meadowbank. Picture: Bill Henry

Andy Laing, a former World Masters Points Race champion, was involved in a smash with a black Volkswagen in Musselburgh last week.

The 59-year-old was rushed to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary following the crash.

Last night the hospital revealed his condition is critical but stable.

The civil servant, from Mid Calder, is one of Scotland’s most successful champs having amassed some 70 honours in a lengthy track and road career.

He is also the current president of Musselburgh Roads Cycling Club, where he has been a member for the last 43 years.

Club secretary Douglas Kirkham said every single member has been left stunned by the awful accident.

He said: “All members, past and present, of the MRCC wish Andy a speedy and full recovery and our thoughts are, of course, with Andy and his family.

“His main passion has always been track racing and he has amassed over 70 honours at Scottish and British level.

“In 2001, he was the World Masters Points Race champion when the event was held at Manchester Velodrome.

“Andy still races competitively in the Meadowbank National track league and at British Masters Championships and other track competitions across Britain.

“He is still active in the administrative side of cycle sport in Scotland and widely respected for his work in cycling committees at club, district and national level.”

The accident happened near the town’s High Street at around 9.30pm on September 13. The 19-year-old woman driver was uninjured.

It is believed Mr Laing may have been cycling home from a club meeting in the dark when the accident happened.

British Olympic cyclist Craig Maclean – who won silver at London last year – told his followers about Mr Laing’s accident on the micro-blogging site, Twitter.

It was quickly retweeted by other concerned cycling enthusiasts.

Police are still appealing for any witnesses to contact  them.

Pc Murray Haldane, of Police Scotland, said: “An investigation is under way in order to establish the circumstances and we are appealing to any witnesses who may have seen the collision.”

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