Friday, September 01, 2006


The inquest into the death of Wonderstuff drummer Martin Gilks has been told he was riding "like a muppet" and seen tailgating and speeding minutes before his fatal crash. Witness Tim Dunn said:

"I was watching him because he was right on my tail, speeding and going around the (central) island the wrong way. I was watching him to see what he would do next. He was a muppet."

Sgt Richard Auty, from the Metropolitan Police's crash investigation unit, told the court the drummer was travelling at at least 47mph when he crashed - the speed limit on a section of the road was 30mph.

Deputy Coroner Dr Shirley Radcliffe said: "He failed to negotiate the bend for some reason and clipped the kerb.

"The bike fell on its side and maintained a speed of 47mph, the riders were thrown off, fatally injuring Mr Gilks."

A verdict of traumatic road death was recorded.

[Obituary: Martin Gilks]