A CYCLIST is in a critical condition in hospital after a suspected hit and run on Warrington Road.

Police closed Warrington Road following the incident but it has now reopened.

The 57-year-old man from Great Sankey is currently in hospital after suffering a serious head injury after being found by the side of the road by a passing motorist at 6.40am.

He next of kin have been informed, police say.

Collision investigators say he was riding a white racing-type road bike and are appealing for the driver of the vehicle that was involved in the collision to come forward. 

The road, which links from Warrington to Bold Heath near Widnes, was shut from 6.45am following the suspected hit and run

The accident happened close to the Mersey Valley Golf Club.

Warrington Road was closed between its junctions with Clock Face Road and Sandy Lane.

Police are appealing for any motorist who was in the Bold Heath and Warrington area at around that time to contact them.

Sergeant Jason Higham from Merseyside Police's roads policing department, said: "This man is in a critical condition in hospital and it is imperative that we trace the driver who has been involved in the collision.

"Due to the casualty's injuries and the damage to his racing bike, we strongly believe the motorist will be aware that they have collided with the cyclist so it is important they do the right thing and make themselves known to us.

"There is an extensive police investigation underway in Warrington Road and we are going through all the CCTV footage from the area to establish who has driven along there early this morning.

"The spot where the cyclist has been found is well lit by street lighting and is a straight stretch of road so you would be in no doubt if you were involved. 

"This man is an extremely poorly condition in hospital right now and it is important that anyone who was involved or witnessed this collision contacts me on 0151 777 5747.

"I would also appeal to anyone who has seen a vehicle with damage to the front passenger side that looks new and may have been driven in the Bold Heath, St Helens or Widnes area early this morning to also come forward."