A CORONER has raised concerns over a stretch of road near Llangollen following the tragic recent death of a motorcyclist.

John Gittins, senior coroner for North Wales East and Central, has urged Denbighshire Council to take action over the condition of the A539 near Llangollen road following the death of John Michael Thomas. 

The 29-year-old died in a two-vehicle crash on December 2 close to the Sun pub, Trevor.

The Leader: John Michael ThomasJohn Michael Thomas (Image: North Wales Police)

After opening an inquest into his death, John Gittins, coroner for North Wales east and central, has now contacted Denbighshire County Council about the A539, where the fatal collision happened. 

In a Prevention of Future Deaths Report, which was being sent to the local authority regarding the death of Mr Thomas, Mr Gittins said: "Initial indications by way of witness evidence suggest that the loss of control occurred as a result of Mr Thomas’ motorcycle 'slipping on the road'.

"My understanding is that this has occurred near to the Sun Trevor Public House, and I have been made aware that some issues regarding flooding and the general condition of this part of the highway had been made known to the local authority prior to the accident. Furthermore my understanding is that concerns have also been raised with the local authority in relation to surface water/flooding on another part of the A539 near to Llangollen, namely near to the Wenfrwdd Pocket Park entrance.

"I am therefore concerned that if action is not taken to remedy these issues, there is a risk that future deaths may occur. Your response must contain details of action taken or proposed to be taken, setting out the timetable for action. Otherwise, you must explain why no action is proposed."

MORE NEWS: 

The council has until February 9, 2024 to respond to Mr Gittins, with details of what actions have been taken or are proposed.

A Denbighshire Council spokesperson said: "Denbighshire County Council has received the findings of the coroner regarding the death of John Michael Thomas following a road traffic collision in December 2023 on the A539 outside Llangollen.

"The council’s highways team is currently working to understand the issues with this stretch of road and will formally respond to the coroner in February 2024 setting out what actions have been completed, what further actions will be proposed, along with the timetable for action in order to mitigate incidents on this part of the highway."

In a tribute to John, his family described him as a "loving and funny character".

“Mike has left a hole in everyone’s hearts, as a family, community and friends group," the tribute said. 

“He would make everyone laugh and be happy on a down day, would do anything for anyone and would not expect anything in return.

“We can say that Mike had lived his life enjoying the things he loved - going out on his bike with his friends and spending time with his family. That’s what made him happy."

be forgotten, and we will keep his memory going, as he has left such a big hole in so many people’s hearts.”