Police officer dies after she was hit by van while cycling

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A female police officer was killed when she was struck by a van while cycling on a dual carriageway in rural Wales.

Sergeant Lynwen Thomas, 37, died on the roadside near Bancyfelin in Carmarthenshire after being struck on Thursday evening.

Superfit Lynwen was an experienced cyclist who had previously taken part in triathlons and a charity ride from John O'Groats to Lands End.

She worked as a heritage crime specialist at Dyfed-Powys Police and was described as a 'well-respected' officer.

Hundreds of devastated colleagues paid tribute to her by changing their Facebook profiles to a thin blue line.

One described her as a 'lovely lady who would be greatly missed' others told how generous Lynwen would 'do anything for anyone'.

© Provided by Daily MailSergeant Lynwen Thomas, 37, died on the roadside near Bancyfelin in rural Carmarthenshire, Wales, after being struck by a van while cycling on the A40 on Thursday evening

But tragedy struck when she was riding along the busy A40 road and she was killed.

The van driver has since been arrested and questioned on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and released under investigation.

Dyfed-Powys Police said: 'With sadness we confirm the tragic loss of a member of the Dyfed-Powys Police family.

'Sergeant Lynwen Thomas was a well-respected serving officer who passed away following a collision yesterday.

'Our thoughts are with her loved ones, who ask for privacy at this difficult time.'

© Provided by Daily MailThe van driver has since been arrested and questioned on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and released under investigation. Pictured: The A40 where she was struck

In a previous statement police said they were investigating the tragedy near the village of Bancyfelin, near Carmarthen on Thursday evening.

Dyfed-Powys Police said: 'Officers responded to a collision involving a cyclist and a van on the A40 westbound near Bancyfelin at around 6.40pm.

'Tragically the female cyclist died at the scene. Our thoughts are with her family at this time.

'The driver of the van was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, and is currently in police custody.

'Enquiries into the circumstances of the collision are ongoing, and any witnesses are asked to come forward.'