The inquest into the accident that killed British Cyclist Mike Hall in March 2017 will be held in Canberra, starting 24th September 2018. I am asking for help to afford to fly to Australia and stay there to attend the inquest and seek legal advice if I can.

I originally asked for £3500 which was what I considered would cover me getting to Australia (and home again) and some accommodation while I am there. I have been encouraged by a few people who I trust to look into getting some legal advice / representation. If I can afford anything meaningful I will do so. To reflect this I adjusted the total.

It has been difficult to get information from the Court in Canberra, I will continue to try to get the information I need in order to represent Mike and myself and this community who have supported us through so much.

I believe it is vitally important that someone who loved Mike is present on his behalf, to hear the evidence, to observe the proceedings and if possible seek clarity on some questions regarding some of the evidence. I would be present as the sole representative of Mike's close friends, and I hope also to represent his admirers and his peers in the cycling world.

If I am not able to attend I fear nobody who loved him will be present.

I was Mike's partner and love for three years. We worked together on the Transcontinental Race and other cycling events. We shared a very close group of friends who support my belief that someone who loved Mike ought to be present to bear witness at this inquest, where the circumstances of his death will be examined and the final story told.

I also want to attend to represent the cycling community; too many cyclists are killed on roads the world over by vehicle drivers. Mike was a passionate advocate of cycling as a means of transport. Mike was an experienced and competent cyclist and that needs to be emphasized at his inquest, whatever the outcome.

I was Mike's partner from 2013 to 2017. He was the love of my life and my best friend. I am now the Race Director for the Transcontinental Race having taken over the role when Mike died. The race makes very little money so I live frugally in Mid Wales where I can work on the race and also as a support worker for people with a learning disability when time allows. I am unable to afford to get myself out to Australia and so I have had to ask the community for help.

I feel very lucky to be able to continue Mike's work, it helps me to feel close to him, and also allows me to work within the wonderful endurance cycling community that Mike introduced me to.

I feel very embarrassed to ask for money, I would not but I am left with no other option. Thank you for your kind support.

Anna xx