Former British under-23 champion passes away

By Gerry McManus

Talented British rider Peter Bissell died suddenly on December 29 in his home town of Stevenage. The 2006 British Under-23 road race champion collapsed while out with friends and was taken to a hospital where he later died.

Bissell was due to return to France for his third season and was joining the Hennebont team for 2008. He was looking to a step up in category. His 2006 season saw him win support from the Dave Rayner fund which had been extended into 2008.

Bissell also won many Juvenile and Junior titles and awards during his young and all too short cycling career, and he was awarded for his efforts with the Chris Boardman Trophy in 2005.

He had been racing for the Arctic-Shorter-Rochford team in recent years and the news of his death was reported by team manager Rob Finch.

"Peter will be remembered for his sense of fun, will to win and dogged determination," said Finch. The Cyclingnews staff would like to extend its deepest condolences to the family and friends of this talented young rider.