A TRIBUTE has been left at the scene of a fatal crash in Weymouth - as police continue to appeal for witnesses to the tragedy on Christmas Eve.

A local man aged in his 50s who was riding a bicycle sadly died after he was in collision with a silver Mitsubishi 4x4.

It happened at around 11.30am on the A354 Weymouth Way between the Chafeys and Manor roundabouts.

The cyclist sustained very serious injuries and died at the scene. The driver of the Mitsubishi was not physically injured.

READ MOREA354 Weymouth Way reopens following earlier closure due to fatal crash

Dorset Echo: Christmas wreath tribute to cyclist killed in crash on Weymouth Way Picture: Sam McKeownChristmas wreath tribute to cyclist killed in crash on Weymouth Way Picture: Sam McKeown

The crash happened in the Radipole area where the road curves and crosses over the River Wey.

Since the tragedy, a Christmas wreath with a heartfelt message has been left at the scene.

Part of it reads: 'Taken far too soon. Rest in peace.'

Dorset Echo: The A354 Weymouth Way on Christmas Day evening. Picture: Sam McKeownThe A354 Weymouth Way on Christmas Day evening. Picture: Sam McKeown

Police, firefighters and ambulance crews were all called to the scene on Friday and the road, a busy route, was closed for several hours while emergency services responded to the incident and collision investigators examined the scene. It reopened around 4pm.

Local roads were clogged up with traffic as drivers sought alternative routes - the incident also saw the closure of Spa Road between Radipole Lane and Ullswater Crescent.

Police continue to appeal for witnesses and anyone with dashcam footage to come forward.

Dorset Echo: The bike lane on the A354 Weymouth Way. Picture: Sam McKeownThe bike lane on the A354 Weymouth Way. Picture: Sam McKeown

Sergeant Dave Cotterill, of the traffic unit, said: “Our thoughts are with the man’s family and friends at this devastating time.

“An investigation into this collision is underway and I am appealing to anyone who witnessed the incident, or may have captured it on dashcam, to please contact Dorset Police.

“Finally, I would like to thank motorists, local businesses and residents for their patience and understanding during the road closures, which were entirely necessary to allow us to respond to this incident.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk/do-it-online/, via email SCIT@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting incident number 24:168. Alternatively, to stay 100 per cent anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or call Freephone 0800 555 111.