Burglary At Chiswick Home Of James Cracknell And Beverley Turner

James was in hospital when thieves stole valuable items

James Cracknell and his wife Beverley Turner have been the victims of a burglary at their home in Chiswick.

The Olympian was away over-night at Charing Cross Hospital undergoing tests on Wednesday (Dec 4) relating to ongoing health problems as a direct result of his road accident three years ago. In July 2010 James suffered a near-fatal brain injury when he was hit from behind by a truck whilst cycling through Arizona.

Beverley and her three young children (10, 4 and 2) were sleeping upstairs when intruders broke into the side of the semi-detached house and stole several personal items as well as four bicycles, including a red and white Pinarello Prince and three top-of-the-range black and white Merida mountain bikes with a combined value of over £20,000.

James pictured with wife Beverley

James said, "It's terrifying to think that thieves broke into my home while I was away and my family were sleeping upstairs. I am especially upset about a camera which has gone containing irreplaceable family photos." 

Bev says; "Although I'm not a fan of bicycles cluttering up our garage, I do feel sorry for James as he has spent years forming a collection of his favourites. I'm just grateful that my children were not hurt in any way. We are lucky to live in a nice area of West London that can feel deceptively safe. It proves that at this time of the year, we should be especially vigilant."

Local police have appealed to anyone who sees these distinctive black and white bicycles to call 101.  

James is currently a Conservative Party candidate for the European Parliament elections next May. He was the third candidate selected for the South West constituency of the Parliament which comprises Cornwall, Devon, Somerset, Dorset, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire.

Last year James and Beverley published a book' Touching Distance', documenting his recovery and the impact of his accident on their relationship.

December 5, 2013