Police are hunting a hit-and run-driver after a cyclist was killed following a collision in the New Forest on Monday night.

John Morris (58), a traffic accident investigator and former police sergeant, was found lying in Furzley Road, near his bike and close to the junction with Cadnam Road, at around 7.40pm. Police believe he was involved in a collision with a vehicle which then drove off.

Mr Morris was taken to Southampton General Hospital, where he died from his injuries. He lived with his wife, Marion, in Ashurst. Mrs Morris is being comforted by her two sons, Andrew and Graham.

The family said in a statement: "A loving son, husband, father and granddad to a close-knit family, John retired from Hampshire Police after 30-years' service and took up a role as a traffic accident investigator.

"He was a keen racing and touring cyclist and completed dozens of rides in excess of 100 miles. He was also instrumental in bringing the Tour de France to Hampshire. We take a little solace in that he died riding the cycle he so loved."

Police are appealing for anyone who may have seen Mr Morris on the road from the Salisbury direction between 7pm and 7.40pm. He wore a fluorescent cycle jacket, white cycle shirt, black cycling shorts and a yellow and black helmet.

Barry Talbot, of Hampshire Constabulary, said: "This is a tragic accident and there will be many serving officers who will have known and worked with John. All our thoughts are with his wife and family.

"We remain committed to conducting a thorough investigation into this incident, providing the same detailed inquiry as any other collision which has resulted in someone's death."

Sergeant Richard Parsons, of the Road Death Investigation Team, added: "It's crucial that anyone who can help with this investigation comes forward, no matter how insignificant they feel the information is."

* Call the road death investigation team, citing Operation Centaurus, on 0845 045 45 45.