DORSET Fire and Rescue’s assistant chief fire officer Ben Ansell is warning all cyclists to wear a cycle helmet, after his daughter was in collision this week.

Her helmet saved her life, he said.

Hannah Ansell, aged 13, was cycling from her home to school when a van collided with her, throwing her approximately 20m in the air.

Bridport and Lyme Regis News:

Ben Ansell at the scene of his daughter's accident.

Mr Ansell, who is Dorset Fire and Rescue Service’s strategic lead for road safety said: “In my time in the fire service I have seen lots of road traffic collisions, but I felt I needed to share my personal experience in the hope that others can learn from it.

“I know that had Hannah not been wearing her helmet on Tuesday morning, this could be a totally different incident – her helmet really did save her life. I would urge all cyclists to make sure they have the proper protective clothing including a well fitted helmet. “I would also like to thank the police officers, paramedics, nurses and doctors who looked after Hannah. In particular, I would like to praise the actions of a GP doctor who came to Hannah’s aid and ensured that she was not moved before the arrival of the emergency services”.

Hannah has suffered some minor injuries and is recovering at her Broadstone home.