A cyclist suffered a suspected broken pelvis after crashing to the ground when trying to avoid a dog running free in Richmond Park.

The incident has provoked a plea from the Royal Parks Police to dog owners to keep their pets under control.

Dog walkers are no longer required to keep their pets on a lead following an end to the deer birthing season, however the police fear this creates its own problems.

The Royal Parks Police tweeted about the incident, saying: "Is your four legged friend super excited to be off the lead now that the deer birthing season has ended?

"Unfortunately, some get so overwhelmed by their new freedom that they forget to look left and right at the road, so we need you to keep them under control.

"A cyclist had to take decisive action today in order to avoid hitting a dog that ran out in front of him. He crashed to the floor resulting in a suspected fractured pelvis."