A CYCLIST who died in a fail-to-stop crash on Tuesday night has been named as Christopher Gibbs.

The family of Mr Gibbs, 30, have paid tribute to a "well-loved and respected son" after the incident on the A338 Spur Road southbound, around a mile from the Ashley Heath roundabout.

In a statement 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 crash occurred at around 10.40pm. Mr Gibbs, from Poole, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Dorset Police has called the incident an "alleged hit-and-run".

A spokesman said: "It is alleged the driver of the vehicle that struck the cyclist failed to stop at the scene.

"A search of the area was carried out and, following extensive enquiries, a white Mercedes van suspected to be involved was located in the Nursling area of Southampton in the early hours of this morning, Wednesday, October 4."

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.

Inspector Matt Butler, of the traffic unit, said: “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."

Contact the force with information on 101 quoting reference 3:518, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.