THE brother of a North hit-and-run victim joined police in a fresh appeal for witnesses yesterday.

Stefan Forge, 47, from Harrogate, North Yorkshire, was cycling with a friend when they were hit by a passing vehicle on the A658 Bradford road, near North Rigton, in the early hours of August 23.

Mr Forge died of his injuries and John Wastling, 42, was so seriously injured he has no recollection of the accident.

A friend of Mr Wastling earlier offered a £1,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the driver responsible.

Yesterday, Mr Forge's brother, Adrian, also urged anyone with information which could help police investigations to come forward.

Fighting back tears, he told a Press conference yesterday: "Stefan was such an outgoing person and always had a smile on his face. He always had time for people and had so many plans for the future."

Police have recovered a piece of a Seat car's front spoiler, found, near the scene and are still hoping to trace the driver.

"Anyone who thinks they know where it may have come from should contact us," said a spokesman.

To contact officers leading the inquiry call (01423) 539474.