A CYCLIST taking part in a time trial was rushed to hospital following a collision with a car on the A31 at Bentley on Saturday.

The incident happened around 2.30pm when the rider, an experienced cyclist, was in collision with a Nissan Qashqai on the northern carriageway of the road, close to The Bull Inn.

He was taken to Frimley Park Hospital with serious, but non-life threatening, injuries.

The injured man was one of 100 competitors from a range of clubs taking part in an open 10-mile time trial run by Charlotteville Cycling Club, based near Guildford.

Event organiser Daniel Sharp said: “Early on in the event one rider was cycling to the start when he was hit by a car.

“The cyclist was a very experienced and competitive cyclist, who regularly commutes into London during the week. He was familiar with the course having participated in a number of time trials in the area.

“The rider suffered a number of injuries and was taken to hospital by ambulance. A number of motorists, cyclists and marshals ensured the area was safe and the cyclist was cared for until the emergency services arrived.

“The event was abandoned as soon as it became clear that it would not be safe to continue due to the road conditions in the vicinity of the incident.”

And he added: “All those involved should be commended for their calmness and professionalism dealing with the incident.”

Enquiries are ongoing into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Anyone with any information that may help the investigation should call the police on 101, quoting reference 44170340407.