A Cumbrian man is in a "critical condition" after being hit by a car this morning.

Police have confirmed that a 37-year-old man from Cockermouth is currently in the Cumberland Infirmary, Carlisle with serious injuries after being by a car near Great Clifton.

The driver of the Citroen car, a 25-year-old man from Cockermouth, was not injured in the collision.

Police were alerted to the incident, which took place on the A66 Stainburn bypass, just after 3:30am this morning.

A spokesman for Cumbria Police said "The Stainburn bypass is closed in both directions and will remain closed for the foreseeable future.

"Diversions are in place and congestion is expected in this area. Drivers are asked to plan their journey accordingly."

Anyone with information that may be of assistance to police investigations is being asked to contact PC 2344 Ross on 101.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

A Cumbria Police added that the force also wish to speak to the driver of a white taxi, "as a potential witness", who was spotted in the area at the time of the incident.