Tributes as jogger dies after cyclist crash

Peter Craig, 49, from Livingston, was struck at around 9am on Saturday while out running on the Loan Footpath, at its junction with Fergus Avenue.

Despite initially seeming to be relatively unhurt by the collision, a witness called an ambulance as a precaution and Mr Craig – who had recently got married – was rushed to hospital, where it was later found he had serious brain injuries.

Police confirmed he died yesterday afternoon at the Western General. It is understood he had previously been declared brain dead but was being kept alive so his organs could be donated.

Family and friends have since paid tribute to a “well-liked” newly-wed with an “infectious” enthusiasm for sport.

The accident comes just four months after Mr Craig and his wife Mhairi tied the knot.

In a poignant Facebook post, Mr Craig’s daughter Maddie, 20,shared a picture of her dad and wrote: “I Love you Dad. You will be missed, always.”

Yesterday a neighbour said the sad news had come as a shock to the whole community.

He said: “His wife was in bits. She said her world was in tatters. I was tearing up as well, even though I never knew them that well.”

Mr Craig worked for Asda and was a member of the West Lothian Triathlon sports club, as well as the organiser of the Livi Road Runners. Before his death he had been training for the Highland Perthshire Marathon.

During the course of his running career he raised hundreds of pounds for charity and even penned a blog devoted to the sport three years ago.

In a statement, West Lothian Triathlon said: “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Peter Craig.

“Peter had been a member of the club for two years and his enthusiasm for the club and for triathlon was infectious. He had recently become a committee member and had also taken the lead on the Wednesday night run sessions. He will be sadly missed.”

It is understood Mr Craig collided with the cyclist on a stretch of path where the view was obscured, meaning neither saw each other until the last second.

A police spokeswoman confirmed no charges were being pressed in relation to the incident and said the cyclist had been left “absolutely devastated”.

Police Scotland’s Sergeant Gary Taylor said: “This was a tragic accident and our thoughts go to Peter’s family at this very sad time.”

Mr Craig’s family said they were too upset to comment when contacted by the News.