TRIBUTES have been paid to a Chiddingfold resident, who sadly died in Milford on Sunday, during a cycle ride with Godalming and Haslemere Velo Club.

Regular rider Saeed Mumtaz, who was in his 50s and worked as a research director, fell off his bike in Station Lane, near Milford Station, just after 11.30am and sadly died at the scene after paramedics battled to save him.

Surrey Police have issued an appeal for witnesses to the incident, which they do not believe involved any other vehicles.

The road was closed in both directions, while staff from both South East Coast Ambulance and the Kent Surrey and Sussex Air Ambulance, which landed nearby, tried to revive him.

In a message to club members on Monday, captain Lara Taylor said: “Unfortunately I have some very sad news about one of our club members, Saeed Mumtaz, who has been a regular rider with the intro group over the past few months.

“At the very end of the intro ride, and going very slowly on the approach to Milford Station car park, Saeed fell off his bike. He was immediately found to be unconscious by fellow riders with him, so emergency services were called.

“CPR was administered by our riders and by a bystander who happened to be a trained lifeguard. Paramedics arrived on the scene and attempted to resuscitate him but sadly their attempts were unsuccessful.

“I wanted to send information out about this event as soon as possible, as clarification.

“However, at this point the exact cause of Saeed’s death is still unclear.”

Friend and fellow club member Friend and fellow club member Nick Strugnell said: “Saeed started cycling with VCGH about six months ago and was a familiar face on our Sunday morning introductory rides from Milford Station, and our Wednesday evening rides from The Merry Harriers pub, in Hambledon.

“He was a dedicated cyclist, serious about improving his fitness in spite of his demanding work schedule, and already a fantastic bike handler – adept at cycling in a group, descending our beautiful hills, and of course navigating round our numerous potholes.”

“Saeed collapsed without warning. He was quickly found to be not breathing and fellow club members and a passer-by administered CPR while waiting for paramedics to arrive.

“We were devastated to hear that Saeed did not survive and our thoughts and love go out to his family.”

Saeed was often accompanied by his son Noah, who survives him along with his daughter Ayesha, and wife Ally.

Surrey Police would like to hear from anyone who saw Mr Mumtaz fall or riding shortly before the accident, or who may have dashcam footage.

•Witnesses should call 101, quoting reference PR/P18116154.