A NINE-YEAR-OLD boy has died after his bicycle was struck by a van.

Ethan Ritchie was on his bike on Friday evening in Airth, in the Falkirk Council area, when he was knocked down by the van in Kennedy Way.

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He was taken to Forth Valley Royal Hospital following the collision, which happened at around 7.15pm, but he died a short time later.

Police Scotland, who revealed details of the crash on Monday, said Ethan's family have described him as a "happy-go-lucky boy".

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Inquiries are taking place and anyone with information is asked to contact Pc Mark Grant at the Road Policing Unit in Stirling on 101.