Much-loved Leeds doctor killed in cycling accident on Cumbrian mountain pass

Police in Cumbria have revealed that the rider was Dr Simon Newell, who has been described as “one of the fathers of Leeds neonatology” by colleagues at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust (LTH).

It is believed that the 59-year-old father-of-three died after falling off his bike on Newlands Pass yesterday.

Dr Newell, who lived in Leeds, leaves behind his wife, three children and a baby granddaughter.

In a statement his family said: “Simon loved Cumbria and had been going there to enjoy the mountains for over 30 years.

“He particularly loved Braithwaite, where he had a cottage and planned to retire with his wife, Dr Debra Newell.”

Newlands Pass was closed for four hours after the incident, which officers are continuing to investigate.

News of the death of the doctor, who specialised in the care of newborn babies or neonatology, has shocked colleagues at LTH.

A tribute from the trust’s neonatal team described Dr Newell as a “dear friend and colleague” who made “a huge contribution to neonatal medicine in the UK”.

It read: “Simon was a true gentleman and treated everyone he worked with, and cared for, equally.

“His boundless energy and enthusiasm, great wisdom, sense of humour, and bow ties will be greatly missed.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and everyone who knew him at this difficult time.”