Scots cyclist rushed to hospital with spinal fractures after hit-and-run driver 'left him for dead'

A cyclist was 'left for dead' by a hit-and-run driver who struck him in Blantyre yesterday morning.

NHS worker Mark Richards was cycling on Glasgow Road around 11.30am on Saturday when he was hit by the vehicle, believed to be a dark coloured Vauxhall Insignia.

Mark was hit by a car while he was cycling on Glasgow Road (Google Maps)

The "much loved husband and father" was rushed to Queen Elizabeth University Hospital with spinal fractures.

His wife Carol shared a picture of Mark shortly after the incident which shows the dad lying on the ground.

In the image, you can see his legs are covered in blood and his cycling shorts are shredded.

Carol has demanded the driver turns themselves in as she asked witnesses to come forward.

She said: "This is my husband Mark. He was hit by a car in Blantyre whilst cycling on Glasgow road coming from Cambuslang direction.

"This happened on Saturday 24th April 2021 at around 11.30am. There are witnesses who have given statements to police. They believe the car was a Vauxhall Insignia 66 plate, dark grey or black.

"There will be damage to the car probably the left hand side."

Carol added: "Mark has been admitted to the QEUH with spinal fractures. He is a much loved husband and father who is very fit and active and has worked for the NHS for over 30 years.

"The driver left him for dead.

"Police are looking at CCTV in the area. I’m appealing to the driver to give themselves up voluntarily. I’m also appealing to anyone who has any information to please come forward.

"You can phone Police Scotland on 101 quoting incident number 1368(24/4/21). Can everyone share this please especially those based in Blantyre. Many Thanks."

Police are currently looking for the driver of the car as they launched a probe into the incident.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said : "Officers attended Spittal Terrace, just off Hamilton Road, Cambuslang (A724) between Cambuslang and Blantyre at 11.25am on Saturday, 24 April 2021, following crash involving a cyclist and car.

"The 50-year-old male cyclist was taken to Queen Elizabeth University Hospital for treatment.

"Medical staff describe his condition as stable.

"Enquiries are ongoing to identify and trace the car and driver. Anyone who witnessed the incident is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting reference number 1368 of 24 April 2021."

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