A WOMAN is fighting for her life after being hit by a car as she crossed a main road in Southampton.

Police said the pedestrian, who is in her 60s, suffered serious head injuries after being hit by a Vauxhall Belmont car at Bitterne Road West at about 5.10am today.

She was taken to Southampton General Hospital, where her injuries were described as life-threatening.

The driver, who is 23 and from the Sholing area of the city, was uninjured.

Traffic delays were caused because roadworks and the narrowness of the carriageway forced officers to close Bitterne Road West in both directions.

The east-bound carriageway was reopened by 7.50am, with the west-bound section opening at 8.55am. Traffic was diverted around the Bullar Road and Cobbett Road area.

A police spokesman said: "Police are especially keen to hear from the driver of the car that stopped immediately behind the Belmont at the crash and helped at the scene.

"He left the area before his details were obtained and police would like to speak to him again."

Anyone who can help the investigation should call Eastleigh traffic office on 0845 045 45 45 and ask for PC Brian Curtis.