POLICE are today hunting a hit-and-run driver after a cyclist was killed in the New Forest.

The cyclist was found lying next to his bike in a narrow unlit lane and taken to Southampton General Hospital, where he died from his injuries.

The accident happened at Furzley Road, Newbridge, near its junction with Cadnam Lane, shortly after 7.30pm.

Police believe the cyclist, who has not yet been named but is thought to be local, was struck by a vehicle that drove off after the collision.

Officers sealed off the scene and diverted traffic along other roads in the area, including Kewlake Lane, Bramshaw.

Councillor Joan Pressey was driving home after a meeting of Bramshaw Parish Council when she witnessed the police activity.

Cllr Pressey said: "We saw a road block at the end of Warrens Lane and when we got to Furzley Crossroads there was a police vehicle right across the road. The whole area appeared to be a no-go zone.

"We spoke to a PC who had been at the parish council meeting. She said there had been a very bad accident at Newbridge."

Other local residents who witnessed police activity in the aftermath of the accident included Richard Manley, chairman of the New Forest Commoners' Defence Association.

Hampshire police say that the cyclist was middle-aged and came from the New Forest area.

A police spokesman said: "He was found with serious injuries at the side of the road by a passing motorist. He was taken to Southampton General Hospital, where he died from his injuries.

"A full investigation has been launched and early indications are that another vehicle may have been involved and left the scene before police arrived."

Ring the New Forest Roads Policing Unit at Lyndhurst police station on 0845 045 4545 and ask to speak to officers involved in Operation Centaurus.