A man has been arrested on suspicion of drug driving after a cyclist was left in a critical condition following a crash in the London commuter belt.
Essex Police said they were called to reports of a collision between the rider and a car in Loughton on Saturday evening. Officers described his condition as "critical but stable".
The 51-year-old was taken to Whipps Cross Hospital following the crash at the junction of Colebrook Lane and Castell Road at around 9pm, before later being referred to the Royal London Hospital with a serious head injury.
Police closed the road for around five hours as officers carried out an initial forensic investigation.
The force said a 28-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of drug driving and later bailed until July 21 pending further enquiries.
Anyone with information is asked to contact officers at the Chigwell Road Policing Unit on 101.
