Ex-GB triathlete from Newton Aycliffe left with brain injury after horror …

Ex-GB triathlete Melanie Varley was left with a brain injury after being knocked off her bike in a horror crash near Darlington. (Image: PR)

An ex-GB triathlete left with a brain injury after being knocked off her bike has spoken for the first time of the horror crash.

Melanie Varley from Newton Aycliffe^[1] represented Great Britain on the world stage in the triathlon and was on the first qualifier race shortlist to compete for the Team GB Veterans at the 2018 European Championships prior to her life-changing accident.

Melanie was out cycling on a group ride on a steep downhill road when another rider performed a now-banned manoeuvre and lost control of their bike, sending her flying from her cycle.