A man in his 80s has died after being hit by a van in Ashby this morning (Thursday).

He was taken to hospital with 'serious injuries' following a collision in Market Street just before 6am.

However, it was reported by police this afternoon that the man has now sadly died.

A cordon was in place between Derby Road and Brook Street - and the area was closed off to pedestrians and traffic this morning.

A number of police vehicles were on the scene as investigations continued.

Police are also asking for any witnesses to the incident to come forward.

A spokesperson for Leicestershire Police said: "Police were called at 5.56am by East Midlands Ambulance Service who were attending a report of a collision involving a pedestrian and a van.

Part of Market Street was cordoned off to traffic and pedestrians. All Photos: Ashby Nub News

"The pedestrian – a man in his 80s – was taken to hospital with serious injuries following the incident."

Detective Sergeant Jon Putnam, from the force's Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said: "Sadly the man who was injured in the collision has died.

"We are continuing to carry out enquiries to establish the full circumstances of the collision.

"We have been speaking with a number of people at the scene and are appealing to anyone with any information who has not yet spoken to us to get in touch.

"If you were in the area this morning please think back to if you witnessed the collision or if you saw the pedestrian or vehicle beforehand. Please make contact if you have any information."

You can report online at www.leics.police.uk or call 101 quoting incident 22*702779.

A social media post from the police was issued this morning.

It read: "Please be advised that Market Street, Ashby is currently closed whilst police deal with an ongoing incident.

"This road is believed to be closed for some time so please plan alternative routes. Updates will follow."