The mother of a teenage cyclist who was the victim of a hit and run driver has spoken of how lucky he is to be alive.

Stephen Hill, 13, was knocked off his bike and left lying in the road after the accident in Layer de la Haye at 9.30pm on Friday .

The accident took place on High Road, Layer de la Haye, close to the junction with New Cut when Stephen, of Mallard Close, was hit from behind and rolled on to the bonnet of the car before falling onto the ground.

Quick-thinking friends Matt Devonish and Matt Parr ran to a nearby pub to raise the alarm and Stephen, a pupil at St Benedict's College, was taken to hospital where he was treated for injuries including torn ligaments and cuts and grazes to his face.

His mum Jennifer, who has four other children, said Stephen could not walk properly because he had hurt his foot and could not put any weight on it.

"I have no doubt he is lucky to be alive and it is probably down to the quick-thinking actions of his two friends. They raised the alarm immediately.

"I think someone must have been looking after him and the rest of the family. Stephen told me all he wants now is for whoever was driving the car to say they are sorry," she added.

Mrs Hill said Stephen was resting after his ordeal and joined police in appealing for anyone who was in the area at the time, or who witnessed the accident, to come forward.

A spokesman said the red car involved in the collision would have front end damage and possibly a broken light. It left the scene going in the direction of Wigborough. added the police spokesman.

Anyone with any information about the incident, or can identify the vehicle involved should contact Stanway Traffic Police on 01206 762512.

(right) Hit and run victim - Stephen Hill, who was knocked off his bike.

Picture: STEVE ARGENT

By Lauren Spurgeon

Reporter's e-mail: lauren_spurgeon@thisisessex.co.uk

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