Chelsea Stars Dedicate Victory to Cycle Accident Victim

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Victorian Buchanan killed on Fulham Road on way to work

Chelsea footballers have dedicated their victory over arch rivals Barcelona to a member of staff at the firm who was killed the day before the match.

Victorian Buchanan, aged 28 and from Kilburn, was killed by a lorry at 8.40am on 17th October at the junction of Fulham Road and Beaufort Street as she was cycling to work.

Didier Drogba said after scoring the winner against Barcelona in the Champions League "It was difficult for me to keep playing, but we needed three points. My goal is dedicated to all her family." Jose Mourinho described her as a lovely girl. The tragedy happened in the same week that two Chelsea goalkeepers, Petr Cech and Carlo Cudicini, were hospitalised after being injured in a game.

Victoria had been head of operations for Chelsea Pitch Owners (CPO) for the last five years. CPO run their office from Stamford Bridge and so Victoria was effectively a member of staff.

A spokes person for Chelsea FC said, "She was hugely popular with everyone at Chelsea, staff, players and ex-players. We are all devastated by this tragic news. Our deepest sympathy and condolences go out to her fiancée and family and we would ask the media to respect their privacy at this time."

The driver of the lorry stopped at the scene but no arrests were made. Officers from the Collision Investigation Unit at Euston are investigating. Anyone who witnessed the collision should call 020 7388 6806 or to remain anonymous call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

October 24, 2006