Tributes to tragic cyclist Michael Stanley

A cyclist who was killed in a crash on a busy Black Country dual carriageway was today named as 20-year-old Michael Stanley.

Floral tributes have been left to the "special lad and friend" at the scene of the smash on the A4123 Birmingham New Road in Coseley.

Mr Stanley was thrown from his bike when it was involved in a collision with a Vauxhall Vectra on the Dudley-bound carriageway, near the junction with Sangwin Road,

Paramedics battled to save his life but he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Flowers have been tied to a barrier at the roadside, with emotional tributes written on cards.

One, from Mr Stanley's father, said: "To my son Michael. You meant the world to me. Tragically taken away. Always in my heart I will love you. Dad."

Another, from Emma, Kyle, Mitch and BJ, reads: "Michael — a special lad and friend tragically killed. Love you always in my heart. The kids will miss you."

In a statement today, his parents said: "We want to thank everyone who has been in touch to offer their condolences, but now ask that we are left to grieve at this difficult time."

Police are appealing for information about the incident, which happened on Sunday at about 3.30pm.

Inspector Mark Watkins said: "Birmingham New Road is always very busy, and there are bound to have been people who passed by the car and the bicycle involved moments before the collision, and what they saw may prove vital to our investigation.

"A young man has lost his life, and we need to fully investigate what happened, for the sake of his family and friends."

An inquest was due to open today in Smethwick.

A 37-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of causing death by careless driving. He was later bailed pending further enquiries.

The road — a main route between Wolverhampton and Birmingham — was closed for four hours after the crash. Police barriers were put up between Mason Street, next to the Silver Jubilee Park in Coseley, and Sedgley Road.

Anyone with information should call the Collision Investigation Unit at Aston Police Station on 0345 113 5000.