Cyclist found floating in Leeds canal dies

The cyclist found floating unconscious in a Leeds canal with his bike missing has lost his fight for life.

Michael Alan Houghton, aged 51, from Horsforth, died in Leeds General Infirmary on Tuesday night. A forensic post-mortem examination has taken place to establish the cause of his death but has proved inconclusive. Police say further tests will be carried out.

Mr Houghton had been in a critical condition in hospital since being discovered by passers-by floating unconscious in a stretch of the canal off Leeds and Bradford Road, Kirkstall, at about 7pm on Saturday, July 30.

A 22-year old Leeds man has been arrested in connection with the investigation and is currently in custody. Mr Houghton’s missing Apollo Vortice bike has now been recovered.

West Yorkshire police are still keen to hear from anyone who was in the area at the time and witnessed anything suspicious or who saw Mr Houghton cycling in the area.

Mr Houghton was 6ft 2ins tall, 14 stone, stocky, with short brown hair, a tanned complexion and clean shaven. He was wearing a bright orang /red  tee-shirt, black shorts, white trainers and grey fingerless cycling gloves.

Anyone who has any information that could assist the investigation is asked to contact detectives on 01924 334692.