Sister of Waterlooville dad-to-be who died on “very slippery” A-road to climb mountain for fundraiser

Lucy Ransom will embark on the epic challenge of walking to the summit of Snowdon in Wales on September 13 in memory of her brother Paul Ransom, 25.

The Waterlooville dad-to-be died when he came off his blue Suzuki motorbike on the A272 just before Langrish, near Petersfield, around 7.15am on Wednesday May 24, 2023, before crashing into the front of a lorry.

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An inquest at Winchester Coroner’s Court in June heard overnight works for asphalt resurfacing had taken place on the road before the road was found to be “very slippery” following the accident around seven hours later.

The tragic incident sparked questions over the Hampshire County Council instructed works, which were subcontracted out, and whether warning signs should have been put up for drivers approaching the A272 section.

Coroner Henry Charles, who recorded a narrative verdict, said in conclusion: “Conditions were excellent, sunny and dry and surfacing works had been completed less than six hours before the collision. The surface was very slippery and this had caused or substantially contributed to the collision.”

The coroner also issued a Prevention into Future Deaths report to relevant authorities across the country to make road users aware of works in similar situations for what he described as a “national issue”.

Now Lucy is raising money for road safety charity Brake and Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance. She has already raised over £355 of her £500 target on fundraising page Give Wheel.

Lucy, speaking to The News, said of her brother: “Paul had a caring nature which he showed to all. He had lots of friends and his funeral was at full capacity. It just shows what a great person he was.

“He often competed in bicycle races and would often go travelling. He also loved working at a bike shop in the heart of the community. No favour was too much and he had a real drive and passion.

“This fundraiser is all about him and to raise more awareness of road safety. He went to work one morning and didn't come back. He was in the fittest physical shape and life was just beginning at 25 - recently married, expecting their first child and happy. He seized life to the fullest and his smile will always be what I remember most.”

Writing on the fundraiser, Lucy said: “We are trying to change road signage and speed limits. Motorcycle users are so vulnerable and change needs to happen. We are so thankful to the first responders and witnesses who helped at the scene and knowing that he didn't pass alone gives me some sort of peace.

“So I'm really challenging myself to climb Snowdon(Wales) in memory of Paul as it would be something he would have loved to join me on but I will be putting a photo at the top. He loved the outdoors so he can come with me in spirit. I also have health issues and I haven't done any previous training before.”

To donate go to: www.givewheel.com/fundraising/9144/a-mountains-tale/