A Ringwood cyclist in his 50s sustained life threatening injuries in a collision with a silver Renault Clio at around 8.30pm on Monday 29 March on the B3081 near to the turning to Alderholt.

The man was taken to Southampton General Hospital.

The driver of the Renault – a man aged in his 30s from Hampshire – was uninjured. He was arrested at the scene on suspicion of driving offences and is currently assisting police with their enquiries.

The road was closed to allow emergency services to deal with the incident and for a detailed examination of the scene to take place.

Police Sergeant Lee Savage, of the traffic unit, said, “We are carrying out enquiries to establish the full circumstances of this collision and I am appealing for any witnesses to please come forward.

“I would urge any motorists who were travelling in the area and have dashcam fitted to their vehicle to please view it for any relevant footage that may assist my investigation.

“Finally, I would like to thank motorists for their patience during the road closure, which was absolutely necessary to enable emergency services to attend the scene in a safe manner and provide medical treatment.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email at scit@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting incident number 29:737. Alternatively, to stay 100 per cent anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or call freephone 0800 555 111.