THE FAMILIES of two cyclists who were killed in an alleged hit-an-run in Hanham on Sunday have spoken of their devastation following the deaths of the "very special couple".

Ross Simons, 34, and his wife Clare, 30, were out riding a tandem on Lower Hanham Road at around 4pm on Sunday when they were hit by a blue Citroën Picasso. They died at the scene. Their relatives said in a statement: "Both of our families are completely devastated by the tragic events that took Ross and Clare from us.

"A very special couple have been taken from us and we have no words to describe our loss. We would all appreciate it if our privacy was respected at this difficult time in order for us to grieve as a family."

Officers have been granted additional time to question a 38-year-old man arrested hours after the incident on suspicion of death by dangerous driving. A 35-year-old woman also arrested has been released on police bail pending further enquiries.

Officers are appealing to anyone who witnessed the collision, or anyone who saw a blue Citroën Picasso in the area shortly before, to contact police on 101.