THE TRAGIC chemistry student who died in a "cruel twist of fate" bike crash was also a talented musician, the Chronicle can exclusively reveal.

Videos have emerged of Benjamin Pedley, an undergraduate student at the University of Reading, performing mesmerising tunes on the piano.

The 26-year-old sadly died on Monday last week when he crashed into a pedestrian, fell from his bike and hit his head on the concrete.

Paramedics rushed to the scene to treat him and he was immediately flown to the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford where he sadly died on Wednesday.

Friends and family gathered at the university several days after his tragic passing to remember Mr Pedley by holding a candle-lit vigil.

A university spokesman said: "We are deeply saddened by the death of Benjamin Pedley, who was an undergraduate Chemistry student at the University of Reading. Our thoughts are with his family and friends.

“A candle-lighting service was held at the university to honour Benjamin's memory, which was attended by a large number of his friends and family."

An email was sent to fellow classmates informing them of Mr Pedley's tragic death and students close to the 26-year-old have been offered support with their grief.

Mr Pedley, who was described by members of his family on social media as a passionate cyclist, also had a taste for music.

A tribute from his brother, posted on social media, read: "In a cruel twist of fate, one of Ben's passions, cycling, has been what has taken him from us.

"He didn't waste a day in his life. He is my idol, I love him and I will always love him. I'd jump at the chance to tell anyone more about him. Life isn't fair. I will miss him every day of my life.

"He remains with me in my heart and my thoughts. I can still see his smile and his joy and will remember that for all my life."

The tragic accident happened on Monday March 20 when Mr Pedley was crashed his pushbike into a pedestrian who was crossing Wokingham Road in Earley.

Bystanders rushed over as he fell from his bike and emergency services cordoned off the area so an air ambulance could land nearby.

He was treated at the John Radcliffe Hospital's major head trauma unit but he sadly died on Wednesday March 22.

A police spokesman added: "A cyclist, a 26-year-old man, was cycling from Wokingham Road and turned into Church Road, where he collided with a 29-year-old male pedestrian.

"The cyclist sustained serious head injuries and was taken to the John Radcliffe Hospital for treatment, however he sadly died on Wednesday."

Did you know Mr Pedley? Send us your tributes by emailing news@readingchronicle.co.uk