Tributes paid to cyclists Ross and Clare Simons, who died in Hanham crash

FLOWERS have been left at the scene of a hit-and-run in Hanham where two cyclists died after a car, being chased by police, collided with their tandem bicycle.

Married couple Ross Simons, 34, and Clare Simons, 30, were thrown off their bike as they cycled along Lower Hanham Road around 4pm yesterday.

Police have confirmed that shortly before the incident a police officer's attention had been drawn to a Citroen Picasso travelling along the road at speed.

The officer indicated for the car to stop but it made off.

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The officer began to follow the car but it was lost to sight.

Very shortly afterwards the car stuck another vehicle and then collided with Mr and Mrs Simons, who were on a tandem bicycle.

The pair died from their injuries at the scene.

The driver fled the scene but later last night handed himself in to police.

Many bouquets of flowers have been left at the scene today, including one from Hanham Business and Community Partnership.

One message on a bunch left from Darren, Shelley and Joshua read: "Ross and Clare, you were an amazing couple and fantastic people.

"You will be missed so so much by all.

"RIP - gone, but never forgotten."

Messages on others bouquets included the words, "Be at peace," and "Our hearts go out to you and your families".

The Rev Peter Cook, of Hanham Baptist Church, told The Post: "There is deep shock and incomprehension of what has happened in Hanham at the moment.

"Until 50 years ago Hanham was a village outside of Bristol and still has that villagey atmosphere.

"What has happened has really shocked everyone.

"I was halfway through a church service when I found out what had happened on Sunday night.

"I immediately stopped the service and we prayed for everyone involved.

"It's one of those things you just don't expect to happen in your area."

Inspector Frazer Davey, from the Collision Investigation Team, appealed to anyone who witnessed the incident or saw the Citoen Picasso car in the area shortly before the collision to come forward.

"This is a tragic incident in which two people have needlessly lost their lives," he said. 

"Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with their families."

The matter has been referred to the Independent Police Complaints Commission and a 38-year-old man arrested on suspicion of death by dangerous driving remains in police custody. A 35-year-old woman has also been arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving.