A MAN in his 70s suffered “very serious injuries” after being hit by a bus in Christchurch.

The incident occurred at around 8.43am on Wednesday (December 3), in Somerford Road.

A pedestrian – a man in his 70s – was taken to hospital where he remains in a life-threatening condition, police said, and his family has been informed.

A 36-year-old man from Poole has been arrested on suspicion of driving offences.

Road closures were put in place to allow emergency services to respond to the incident.

PC Craig Jeffery, of the Roads Policing Team, said: “An investigation is underway into this collision and I am appealing to any witnesses who have not yet spoken to us to please come forward.

“I would urge any motorists who were driving along Somerford Road at the relevant time with a dashcam fitted to their vehicle to please check for any footage that may assist my enquiries.

“Finally, I know the road closure was in place during a busy time of the morning, but it was necessary for us to safely treat the injured man and carry out a thorough investigation.”

Anyone with information about the crash should contact Dorset Police on 101, quoting reference 55250177675, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.