A CYCLIST is today fighting for his life after an incident on a major Hampshire road.

A man in his 40s is in a life-threatening condition in hospital after he was taken ill while riding on his bike in Salisbury Road, near Hamtun Gardens in Totton.

The incident happened after 11am this morning and police closed the road in both directions.

He was taken to Southampton General Hospital by ambulance.

The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance was sent to the scene and landed at Testwood Recreation Ground.

Hampshire police road collision investigation team is currently at the scene but they say it is believed the cyclist came off his bike after being taken ill.

Sgt Rob Heard of Hampshire Police said: “It appears at this time that there has been a cyclist cycling towards Totton who has fallen off his pedal cycle.

“It appears that it may be due to a medical episode. At this time there is no evidence that there has been a collision with a vehicle.

"We are making inquiries to contact his next of kin but at this time he is alive and has been taken to Southampton General Hospital where he is being treated.

"If anyone has seen a cyclist who was cycling into Totton on a black bicycle at 11am please contact Totton Roads Policing Unit."

Police lifted the cordon around the scene by about 12.30pm and appealed for witnesses.

They want anyone who saw to cyclist riding his black bike in the area at about 11am to contact Totton Roads Policing Unit on 101 quoting Operation Acrux.

The ROMANSE road traffic management team for Hampshire have described the incident as 'serious' and have warned drivers to expect delays.