Sister slams “accidental death” verdict on Eilidh Cairns

The sister of a cyclist crushed to death by a tipper lorry today criticised Boris Johnson over the “needless slaughter” of riders on London's roads. TV producer Eilidh Cairns, 30, of Kentish Town, died from multiple injuries at a pedestrian crossing in Notting Hill last February.

Driver Joao Lopes, 53, would have spotted her if his mirror had been adjusted correctly, an inquest heard. An accidental death verdict was recorded.

Ms Cairns's sister Kate, 37, “The one thing we didn't want was an accidental verdict. We agree it was not intentional but we believed it was avoidable.

Ms Cairns said the Mayor's decision to get rid of the Commercial Vehicle Education Unit was “completely irresponsible”, adding: “Boris wants to make London the cycling capital of Europe but he is doing nothing to help this situation.”