A CYCLIST who died in a tragic crash was struck twice by passing cars, an inquest heard.

Declan Shea was cycling on Harwich Road, towards the B1029 in Great Bromley, when the accident happened.

The 31-year-old died following the crash and his inquest was opened at the Coroner’s Court in Chelmsford yesterday.

Coroner’s officer Jo Duggan said: “This gentleman was riding a pedal cycle towards the B1029 when he was struck by a vehicle from behind and then by another vehicle travelling in the opposite direction.”

The crash took place just after 8pm on September 16 and paramedics and police attended but Mr Shea sadly died at the scene.

Fractures were mentioned as possible injuries and a full inquest is due to take place at a later date to determine how he died.

Tributes were paid to Mr Shea on Facebook.

Kerri Oleforo, Mr Shea’s niece, thanked everyone for their kind words and prayers, saying his death had been a shock to the family.

Childhood friends, who referred to Mr Shea as ‘Dec’, have also been to lay flowers at the scene of the accident.

He was described as a “good guy” who will be missed.

He was part of a big family with many relatives based in Liverpool and Wigan.

Senior Coroner Caroline Beasley-Murray said the case would be up for mention at the Coroner’s Court on October 2.

It is believed one of the cars had driven off after the crash and police are investigating.

A 71-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and was also under suspicion of failing to stop at the scene of a road traffic collision. He has been released by police under investigation.

Officers are continuing to investigate the circumstances of the crash and are appealing for any witnesses to come forward or anyone who may have captured the incident on dash-cam footage.

Campaigners have already raised concerns about a blackspot close to where the cyclist died. They have been calling for the speed limit to be cut to 30mph.

Witnesses should contact the Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 01245 240590 or email collisionappeal@essex.pnn.police.uk