POLICE are appealing for witnesses after a cyclist was hit by a car and seriously injured at the weekend.

The accident happened on the B1405 eastbound on Essen Way roundabout junction with Tunstall Road, Sunderland, at about 2.35pm yesterday.

A grey Honda Jazz car was travelling eastbound towards the roundabout intending to turn right onto Tunstall Road when, for reasons yet to be established, it collided with the cyclist.

The cyclist, a 69-year-old man, suffered serious head injuries and is in Newcastle’s Royal Victoria Infirmary, where his condition is described as critical but stable.

Members of the public including a doctor were at the scene assisting the injured cyclist, but they left before police arrived. Officers are asking for these individuals to contact officers as they may be vital witnesses to the collision.

Anyone with information and anyone who was in the area and may have dash cam footage are asked to contact motor patrols on 101 quoting reference 545 of 10/12/17.