A MOTORIST involved in a suspected hit and run which left a cyclist with serious head injuries has been urged to come forward.

The cyclist has been identified as a 57-year-old man from Great Sankey in Warrington and remains in critical condition in hospital.

His next of kin has been informed.

Collision investigators say he was riding a racing-type road bike when the incident happened around 6.30am on Warrington Road, Bold Heath this morning (Tuesday, February 18).

He was found lying injured on the road side.

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."

The road has been blocked for several hours from the junction at Clock Face Road to the former United Utilities building Dawson House.