An Okehampton mum has made an impassioned to drivers to watch out for cyclists following an accident in which her son suffered severe injuries.

Helene Vandamme is asking drivers to be extra aware of cyclists after her son was thrown off his bike when he had to swerve to avoid an oncoming car at Northlew.

Ms Vandamme said: ‘It’s just so important for young people to go out on their bikes so that they can get that physical exercise but also to be with their friends to socialise. Especially for our young people because they’ve just been through covid and so they’ve missed out on so much [exercise and socialisation].

‘I think that’s why it’s very very important for drivers just to take that extra time. That little bit of extra care just to slow down and just watch out for children.’

Ms Vandamme also said that she is particularly proud of her son for remaining cheerful throughout even when in great pain.

She added: ‘From my perspective as a mum having been through this really difficult ordeal, I would just like to say that it’s just so important for these young people to be out on  their bikes with their friends. And, as a parent, you can only let them do that if everybody’s being careful.

‘[Young people] need that opportunity to be able to go out on their bikes with their friends. They have just as much right to be on the road and be safe as other road users.’

Reports suggest that accidents involving cyclists happen more frequently than many suspect.

The Pump and Pedal bike shop near Okehampton said that it was not uncommon for it to repair bikes involved in traffic accidents and  expected to see more incidents as summer approaches.

The car which was involved in Ms Vandamme’s son’s accident failed to stop and police are now asking for any witnesses or dash cam footage which may identify the driver.

Anyone with information should call 101 quoting log 23 of March 14, 2022.