No light shed on why biker lost control

The coroner has recorded an 'accidental' verdict at an inquest on a 39-year-old Kent man, who died in an accident on the mountain road during the summer.

Members of Mark Leonard Codner's family, including his widow, travelled to the Island for the resumed proceedings, and heard Alastair Montgomerie say his death had left 'a real chasm in their lives'.

Mr Montgomerie heard from witnesses to the accident and from a police officer who examined the scene immediately afterwards.

The accident happened just after 4pm on Sunday, May 23, just above Windy Corner on the last of three bends that make up the 32 milestone. Mr Codner was riding his 1000cc replica Honda Fireblade just before he was due to catch an evening ferry. He was heading towards Douglas and following a friend.

Evidence suggested he lost control coming round the corner, but no certain cause could be established. The weather was sunny and the road conditions dry. Mr Codner slid across the road and collided with a car coming in the opposite direction. He then slid off his bike and into another car directly behind. He died at the scene.

Summing up, Mr Montgomerie told both car drivers there was absolutely no blame attached to them and there was nothing they could have done.

He expressed his deepest sympathies to Mr Codner's family and urged them try and move on with their lives.