THREE people have been arrested after a cyclist was seriously injured in a hit and run.

Paramedics rushed the 36 year-old woman to Southend Hospital after she was knocked off her bike as she cycled along Harcourt Avenue, Southend.

She was struck by a silver BMW at about 4.30pm yesterday, but the car failed to stop at the scene.

The woman needed treatment for a severe shoulder injury, and is now recovering at her Southend home.

Following the crash, officers arrested two men, aged 20 and 23, and a 14 year-old boy.

The trio, who are all local, were arrested at three different locations across Southend.

The police helicopter was seen scouring the area.

They are currently being questioned by officers at Southend police station.

Police are urging anyone who saw the crash to contact investigations officers at Southend Roads Policing Unit on 101.