Girl (4) hurtin cycling hit and run

The girl suffered severe head injuries after colliding with a cyclist on the southern footpath of Aldwick Road.

She has a fractured skull and other internal injuries and was being treated in intensive care at St Richard's Hospital.

The girl was with her mother and younger sister, aged 18 months, and had just crossed Aldwick Road when the accident happened.

The trio '“ who are visiting Bognor from their home in Scotland '“ had reached the pavement outside The Pet Shop when the cyclist collided with the girl as he pedalled towards of Bognor town centre.

The cyclist briefly stopped only to ride off again towards the town centre. He is described as being white and in his teens and riding a black BMX-style bicycle.

A family friend of the injured girl has condemned the number of cyclists on pavements around Bognor Regis.

Philip Mortimer, of Elfin Grove, said: "The incidence of cyclists using the pedestrian footpath has become an epidemic. People of all ages ride with casual indifference to pedestrians.

"What part of the word 'footpath' do they not comprehend? If they are unable or unwilling to cycle on the roadway then I suggest the use of the pavement as an alternative is not acceptable.

"This situation has been allowed to develop unconstrained by the local authorities and enforcement agencies.

"This needs to be corrected with a zero tolerance."

The accident occurred about 4.30pm on Tuesday. Det Sgt Alan Pack, of Bognor CID, said: "We urgently need the cyclist and other witnesses to come forward."

Sussex Police can be contacted on 0845 60 70 999.

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