Biker's death was an accident (From Barry And District News)

Biker's death was an accident

A BARRY twin has told how he watched helplessly as his brother was killed in a horrific motorbike smash.

Giving evidence at an inquest last Friday, Terry Rayment, of Weston Hill, described the events surrounding Steven's death just days before their 21st birthday.

He told the court that he and his brother were close: they both rode the same type of motorbike, both worked at the same place and were planning a joint birthday party.

Mr Rayment described how he looked on in horror when Steven's powerful Honda 250cc machine was involved in a head-on collision on Pen Y Turnpike Road, Dinas Powys, on April 22.

The kitchen porter revealed how he had been "shocked" when Steven overtook him on a busy road and sped into a blind bend.

He said: "We had a reputation for being fast riders. We enjoyed the adrenaline rush.

"That day we left work together and I was in front as we went down a country lane.

"I slowed down to 30mph when we reached one of the bends because hedges meant I couldn't see what was approaching.

"I was shocked to see Steven overtaking me and realised he was not able to travel round the bend safely due to his speed.

"I saw a van approaching and I knew Steven was going to collide. He braked and began to skid.

"The bike banked at a 45 degree angle and Steven slid into the van.

"The bike skidded underneath the van and Steven rebounded off the front."

Van driver Hazel Coles said: "I couldn't do anything and the rider couldn't do anything."

Cardiff coroner Dr Lawrence Addicott recorded a verdict of accidental death.