An Oxfordshire van driver has been arrested in connection with a crash which has left a nine-year-old boy seriously injured. 

Thames Valley Police said a white Citroen Relay van collided with the boy, who was riding his bicycle on Friday at around 5.20pm in Reading. 

The driver of the van, a 42-year-old man from Henley, was arrested on suspicion of driving whilst over the specified limit of a controlled drug and driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence.

READ MORE: Missed a copy of the Oxford Mail you wanted? Here's what to do

He has since been released under investigation after the crash in Liebenrood Road, near the entrance of Prospect Park.

The boy sustained a serious head injury and was taken to hospital for treatment, where he remains at this time.

PC Anthony Alderson, of the Roads Policing Unit, said: “I want to appeal to anyone who witnessed this incident, or who has any dash cam footage that could be useful, to get in touch as soon as possible.

“This collision has left a nine-year-old boy seriously injured so it is very important that we hear from anyone who has any information at all which could help our investigation."

Those with information can contact Thames Valley Police on 101 quoting the reference number 43240167795 or alternatively by making a report online.

You can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.