A CYCLIST in his 50s has died following a crash, police have confirmed.

Officers are appealing for information after the man died following the collision in St Helens this morning, Friday.

Police were called just before 6.30am to Islands Brow, close to its junction with Hinckley Road, to a report a cyclist was injured on the road.

The cyclist, a man in his 50s, was treated by paramedics at the scene and taken to hospital for treatment. Despite the efforts of medical staff at hospital, he was sadly later pronounced dead and his next of kin have been informed. They are being supported by our specially trained liaison officers.

Police believe a vehicle was involved in a collision with the bicycle a short time before the man was found and are conducting extensive inquiries to locate the vehicle and its driver.

A road closure remains in place on Islands Brow near Hinckley Road while a forensic examination of the scene continues. 

Drivers are advised to avoid the area and find alternative routes. Officers have thanked residents for their patience as they deal with this incident.   

Police are appealing for any witnesses, CCTV and dash camera footage which may assist the investigation.

Detective Inspector Richard Shillito said “Our thoughts and condolences are with the family of the man who sadly lost his life following this tragic incident. 

“We have launched an investigation into what happened. Our officers are undertaking an extensive search of the area and studying CCTV footage to locate the vehicle involved.

“I appeal to anyone who witnessed this incident, and any residents living locally who might have CCTV of a vehicle in the area between 6-6.30am to please contact us. Alternatively, if you were driving in the vicinity I ask that you please check your dashcam footage that may have captured the incident and to also come forward. 

“Every piece information is vitally important to our investigation and could help us establish what happened so we can provide answers for his family.”

Anyone who witnessed the collision or captured anything on CCTV or dashcam is asked to contact SCIU on (0151) 777 5747, or email SCIU@merseyside.police.uk. Alternatively DM @MerPolCC or @CrimestoppersUK on 0800 555 111, quoting reference 23001212020.