A CYCLIST has been awarded more than £4 million by the High Court after he was injured during a hit and run in 2009.

Patrice Gougam, 55, of Theobold's Road, Crewes Hill, Enfield, was left paralysed in a wheelchair and requires feeding through a tube after the collision on the Great North Road between Barnet and Potters Bar on November 12, 2009.

Michael Elliot, 76, of Willow Way, Potters Bar, initially fled his Land Rover after hitting Mr Gougam, but in October 2010 was jailed for eight months after admitting dangerous driving at St Albans Crown Court. He was also banned from driving for three years and given nine penalty points on his licence.

Mr Gougam, a former professional tennis coach, suffered a brain injury and was in a coma for three weeks. He received treatment at the National Hospital in London for more than six months.

Mr Gougam was transferred to two specialist rehabilitation units and was discharged 21 months after the accident, now requiring 24 hour care.

His wife Virginia Gougam said after last Friday's ruling that they could now look to move forward with their lives knowing that he would receive the very best quality of care.

Speaking on behalf of the Gougam family after the hearing, Stephanie Clarke, of Irwin Mitchell law firm said: “More than two years since the near fatal accident, Mrs Gougam struggles to face each day and the many challenges of caring for her husband and planning for his future.

“However, she is extremely grateful to those who have helped her through this very difficult time as she prepares to rebuild a life for herself and Mr Gougam.”