More than £45,000 has flooded in to a Kent cyclist’s charity page after he was killed in a collision during a 24-hour charity ride.
Following the incident just after 4am on Saturday morning, an 18-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of drink driving and causing death by dangerous driving at the location near Whitstable in Kent. Kent Police added that a 19-year-old man from the Herne Bay area was also arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving
Father of three Christian Smith set a target of £1,000 for his bid to cycle unsupported 248 miles around Kent and West Sussex in aid of the charity mental health charity, Mind. More than 3,500 people have donated to Smith’s cause.
Explaining his motivation for the ill-fated ride on his Just Giving page, 38-year-old Smith wrote: "I want to support the charity Mind, raise awareness towards the great support that they offer, and help bring an end to the stigma that is attached to those who suffer from mental health problems.
"I have had my own misfortune to suffer from a spate of poor mental health, which was unexpected and has been a real 'game changer' in how I now view the future. It has been a tough road to get to this point but I have been fortunate enough to have the support of my family and friends.
"There are those who are not so fortunate to have the same level of support and understanding. They suffer in silence and are alone.”
In a statement on Mind’s website, its chief executive, Paul Farmer, expressed the charity’s condolences to Smith’s family.
To donate, visit Christian Smith’s Just Giving page.
Kent Police are appealing for witnesses.
