A CHILD is in a critical condition after a hit and run involving a motorbike in Flintshire.

Shortly after 5.30pm, North Wales Police said it received a report of an incident on Central Drive, Shotton, involving a motorcycle and a young child, which closed the road.

The rider of the motorbike failed to stop following the collision, police said.

Police said the child was airlifted to Alder Hey hospital having sustained life-changing injuries, where they remain in a critical condition.

The road remains closed as enquiries continue this evening.

Chief Inspector Trystan Bevan said: “There is currently a heavy police presence in the Shotton area this evening as officers attempt to locate a suspect who failed to stop following the collision.

“Three people have also been arrested in connection with the incident on suspicion of perverting the course of justice.

“I am urging anybody who witnessed the incident, or anybody who was travelling in the area of Central Drive at the time and might have dashcam footage, mobile phone footage or CCTV footage, to get in touch with us at the earliest opportunity.

“You can contact us on 101, or via the website, using reference number Q137770. Alternatively, you can contact the independent charity, CrimeStoppers.”

The Flintshire North Police team confirmed on Thursday morning that there will be "a heightened police presence in the area" as officers continue enquiries.

A spokesman for the team said: "The residents and community of Shotton and the wider area will be aware of a serious injury collision yesterday, where a child was struck by a motorbike and the driver has left the scene.

"We continue to appeal for witnesses. Our Roads Policing Unit will be heading up the investigation.

"There will be a heightened police presence in the area as we complete enquiries."