A cyclist taking part in Sunday’s Loch Ness Etape has died after a crash with a car.

The incident happened at about 12:10 on Island Bank Road, near the race event area in Inverness.

Police said the 49-year-old man died a short time later in the city’s Raigmore Hospital.

The male driver and the female passenger of the BMW 120 M Sport involved in the crash were not injured.

The etape is Scotland’s largest closed-road long distance organised cycling event in terms of participants.

It follows a 66-mile (106km) route around the shores of Loch Ness.

Event director Malcolm Sutherland said: “We are truly devastated by the news and our heartfelt thoughts are with the rider’s family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.

“We are working closely with Police Scotland and relevant authorities as they carry out a full investigation.”

The road was closed to allow for crash investigations to take place and reopened at about 18:00 on Sunday.

Police Scotland said inquiries were ongoing and has appealed for information.

Sgt Lewis Macleod said: “My thoughts are with the family and friends of the deceased at this difficult time.

“I would urge anyone who may have witnessed the crash and has not already spoken to police to please get in touch.”

Highland Council said it would carry out its own investigation in liaison with Police Scotland.

A spokesperson said: “The council investigates all fatal road collisions that happen on the local authority road network.”

Thousands of cyclists join the Loch Ness Etape. Last year’s 10th anniversary event saw more than 5,600 people take part.