A CYCLIST has died in hospital after a collision with a van near Weeley early on Saturday morning.

The A133 was closed off in both directions between Weeley roundabout and the roundabout linking to Progress Way, at about 5am after the crash.

A white Ford Transit van collided with a pedal bicycle, ridden by a woman in her 40s.

She suffered serious head and leg injuries and was treated by paramedics at the scene, before being taken to Colchester General Hospital at about 6am.

The woman was later taken to Addenbrooke's Hospital in Cambridgeshire, but died on Saturday afternoon.

Police remained at the scene of the crash for several hours, carrying out their investigation and clearing the wreckage.

The road was re-opened after 10am on Saturday.

A 32 year-old man from Clacton was arrested on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving.

He was taken into custody and questioned by officers.

The man has now been bailed until December 11 while police continue their investigation.

Anyone who saw the crash should contact the police Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 101.