Cyclist's horrific injuries after barbed wire strung across bike trail
WARNING – GRAPHIC CONTENT: A dad has suffered horrific neck injuries after a mystery maniac rigged up barbed wire across a mountainside bike trail in Wales.
Tony Roberts, 39, was out riding his mountain bike when he was suddenly caught around the throat by the hidden wire in the countryside.
The dad-of-one managed to unwrap the metal wire from around his neck to reveal gruesome slashes across his throat.
Horrified onlookers rushed to help him on the trail near Gelli in the Rhondda Valleys before he was taken to hospital.
Mr Roberts' partner Koral Clarke said he was left needing 17 stitches following the terrifying incident.
"The wire was hidden in a tree line so couldn’t have been seen. His injuries are quite severe resulting in 17 stitches," she said.
"Specialist doctors were wondering if he needed surgery but luckily the surgeon managed to stitch him and he was allowed to come home to us."
Ms Clarke has now thanked everyone who helped Mr Roberts and says the family want to warn others who are using the popular mountain trail.
"I’m so glad I’m not planning a funeral right now. He had to unwrap the wire from around his neck," Ms Clarke said.
"As a wife sat at home with our child, not being able to do anything was a horrible feeling.
"I want to spread awareness on how dangerous these acts can be."
Fellow rider Anthony Owens also warned other bikers to be careful while out riding.
"This man could have lost his life through someone’s stupidity," he said.
"Watch where you're riding people. This could have been a lot worse. All you motocross riders and mountain bikers be careful as there’s some sad people out there."
Police are investigating and appealed for witnesses.
Sergeant Karl Emerson of South Wales Police said Mr Roberts was lucky to be alive.
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“He was understandably traumatised by his experience and was very lucky not to have sustained an even worse injury.
“An investigation into the incident is underway. We can confirm it occurred on Sunday at around midday, on a Bwlch Mountain trail.
“It is understood that the barbed wire was obscured by branches and anybody cycling there should be vigilant and take extra care.
“Local officers are searching the area to identify exactly where the incident occurred and to ensure there is no further risk to the public.”
- Australscope
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