Simon Richardson Update (20/8/11)

Simon has been comfortable overnight. His condition remains critical but stable in the Intensive Care Unit at the University Hospital of Wales.

Speaking to his wife Amanda Richardson this morning she said that Simon had "been put into a deep sleep" by his consultants, in order that he remains totally immobilised and able to be given the best care possible. Simons father contacted me yesterday to pass on his thanks to everyone that continues to show such care and compassion for Simon.

Support has been flooding in overnight for the #SIMONSTRONG bike concept, with pro-riders, fellow Olympians and cyclists from all over the world sending messages of encouragement via Twitter.  Messages of support have been received from comedian Jack Dee, Paralympic cyclist Sarah Storey OBE, Olympic Diver Tom Daley, Cycling legend Graeme Obree and professional cyclists Magnus Backstedt, Dean Downing and Robbie McEwen, to name a few.

Tour of Britain organisers are organising a road side collection and card signing amongst riders and fans during the stage in Wales tomorrow.

Note to Press; Simon Richardson is a double-gold Paralympic cyclist.  On the track in Bejing 2008 he won the LC3/4 1km time trial and 3km individual pursuit. He also claimed a silver in the road time trial and assisted team mate Darren Kenny to victory in the road race.  Further details can be found on his Wikipedia page.