TRIBUTES have paid to a “well-loved and respected” cyclist who died in an alleged hit-and-run incident.

Police have named 30-year-old Christopher Gibbs as the man who was struck while cycling on the A338.

It comes as officers continued to queston two people from Southampton over the crash.

Mr Gibbs was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash, which took place at around 10.39pm on Tuesday.

In a statement, his family paid tribute to the 30-year-old, from Poole.

They said: "Christopher was a well-loved and respected son who his family were very proud of.

“We wish to thank everyone for their kind words and support and would request privacy at this deeply upsetting time."

The tributes come after two people were arrested in connection with the incident.

A 57-year-old man from Southampton has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and failing to stop at the scene of a collision.

A 57-year-old woman, also from Southampton, has been arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender.

The pair are currently helping officers with their enquiries.

They were arrested this morning after a search of the collision area was carried out.

Following extensive enquiries, a white Mercedes van suspected to be involved.

It was located in the Nursling area of Southampton in the early hours of this morning.

Inspector Matt Butler, of the traffic unit, said yesterday: “I am keen to hear from anyone who was in the area of Verwood, the A31 or the A338 between 9.30pm and 10.40pm last night and may have seen a cyclist."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email at scit@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting incident number 3:518.

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org.