Cyclist seriously hurt as rope tied across path

The man in his 60s rode his electric bike into the rope

A cyclist has been seriously hurt after he struck a rope that had been deliberately tied over the path he was riding his electric bike on, police have said.

The man, in his 60s, was taken to hospital after he lost consciousness and suffered serious eye and facial injuries.

It happened at about 15:00 BST on Downham Road in Mersey Park, Birkenhead, on Easter Monday.

Merseyside Police's Det Insp Andrew Schofield said the use of the rope was a "deliberate and highly dangerous act" that could have led to "even more catastrophic" injuries.

He said: "We initially believe that a group of youths were involved and we are making extensive efforts to identify them."

Officers are appealing for information, including from anyone who may have seen what happened or have CCTV footage.

Det Insp Andrew Schofield said: "The park will have been busy with people enjoying the Bank Holiday so if you saw the incident or anyone making off from the area, please come forward.

"If you know who these offenders are, do the right thing and we can ensure nobody else is targeted in such a way."