Yorkshire cycling great Brian Robinson has spent the night in hospital in Wakefield after being struck by a car while out riding his bike yesterday.

The 83-year-old, the first British rider to complete the Tour de France and to win a stage in it, was taken to Pinderfields Hospital following the collision where his condition is described as serious but not life threatening, according to the Dewsbury Reporter.

The incident, involving a Volkswagen Passat car, took place at around 1.20pm on Lees Hall Road, Thornhill Lees, Dewsbury.

Councillor Martyn Bolt, Mr Robinson’s son-in-law, confirmed that he had sustained “severe” cuts and bruises and possibly a broken collarbone as a result of the crash.

He said: “We don’t know whether the driver pulled out from a side road or he swerved.

“But he’s hit the road and there was skin and blood on the road.

“The cuts at his age are quite severe.”

Mr Robinson acted as an ambassador for Yorkshire’s successful bid to host the Grand Départ of the Tour de France, which drew millions of spectators to the region earlier this month.

Councillor Bolt went on: “It’s both tragic and ironic that an ambassador for cycling and someone who helped to bring the Tour de France here was brought down within walking distance of his home.

“We hope he’ll be back on his bike soon.”

Earlier this year, Mr Robinson had a beer, Stage Winner, launched in his honour in recognition of his exploits at the Tour de France.

In 1955 he was the first Briton to finish the race, and three years later became the country’s first stage winner. He won a second stage in 1959, and in 1961 won the overall at the Dauphiné Libéré.