A top cyclist who died in a road accident while taking part in a time trial in Warwickshire has been named.

Mother-of-two Cath Ward, aged 52, died on Wednesday night after a collision with a car on the A46 between Alcester and Bidford-on-Avon in Warwickshire.

She was pronounced dead at the scene after other riders in the 10-mile Beacon time trial had fought to save her life.

Witnesses said she was a third of a mile from the roundabout on the A435, heading south towards Salford Priors, when the car collided with her from behind.

Miss Ward, from Claverdon, in Warwickshire, was the top female cyclist with Solihull Cycling Club (SCC).

She leaves behind two daughters, Louise, aged 20, and 22-year-old Fiona, who are both studying at university.

Robin Fox, vice-chairman the SCC, said: “Cath was a very popular member and she had made a lot of good friends through the sport of cycling.

“(She) was the reigning women’s Club Time Trial Champion. She will be sadly missed by everyone at the club and our deepest sympathy goes to her family and closest friends.”

Charlotte Crossley, a close friend said: “Cath was a great friend and a true inspiration.

“Cath was very passionate about getting more women to take up road cycling, especially at a competitive level. She loved cycling around Warwickshire and Solihull and would train in all weathers. While being dedicated, committed and competitive, she was also incredibly witty and caring.

“This is a tragic loss and she will be so sorely missed.”

Miss Crossley said Miss Ward’s last victory had been as recently as last weekend when she won the Midlands Cycling and Athletics Club five-mile time trial.

Posting on the club’s message board, member Jez broke the news to fellow riders: “It is with great sadness that I have to inform you that Cath has been taken from us.

“We will, I’m sure, all have our own special memories of a wonderful lady who lit up the lives of so many people.”

Following her death police arrested the 27-year-old driver of an Audi on suspicion of causing death by careless driving.

He was released on police bail pending further enquires as detectives appealed for witnesses to contact Acting Inspector Adrian Davis on 01926 415415.