The death of a beloved cyclist who lost control of his bike and was struck by a car was an accident, an inquest heard.

Brian Howard, 48, was cycling with a large group of other cyclists down Market Hill in Maldon on June 18.

An inquest at Chelmsford Coroner’s Court on Tuesday heard Mr Howard lost control of his bike, causing him to fall into the opposite lane where he was struck by a car going up the hill.

He was treated at the scene before being flown to the Royal London Hospital.

Sadly, he died the following Wednesday from severe chest, spinal and spleen injuries.

At the inquest coroner Caroline Beasley-Murray heard evidence from PC Danielle Brennan of Essex Police’s Forensic Collision Investigation unit.

She told the court: “Brian Howard had been travelling in a large group of cyclists down Market Hill in the direction of Heybridge at 10.20am.

“The day was pleasant with good driving conditions. In the opposite direction, a line of cars had been moving slowly towards Maldon High Street.

“Mr Howard had been turning the final bend of the hill, when he realised the cyclist in front of him was travelling a little slower, which led him to brake.

“This led to him losing control of his bicycle and falling into the opposite carriageway.

“Keith Hutchins was driving his Citroen Picasso up Market Hill, who then collided with Mr Howard.

“Dash cam footage showed the car had been travelling slowly, below the 30mph limit. Mr Hutchins pulled over to the pavement and acted quickly and efficiently.”

PC Brennan added: “It is my conclusion that this crash was a tragic accident. We will never know for sure why Mr Howard lost control of his bicycle, but most likely from a combination of his position on the road and him braking quickly. But it is impossible to tell.”

Mr Howard, of Springfield, Chelmsford, had worked as a nurse for 20 years and a Clinical Services Manager for Admirals Reach Care Home.

Caroline Beasley-Murray said: “I will record the conclusion Brian died as a result of an accident, a very tragic accident.”

Addressing the family, she said: “I would like to express sympathy to you, not only have you lost him, you have had the ordeal of sitting through this inquest, and you have done so with the utmost courage.”