One of Oxford's leading rugby players has lost a leg after being hit by a car early on Sunday morning.

Nathan Smith in action for Oxford Harlequins

Nathan Smith, who helped Oxford Harlequins win the Oxfordshire Cup last month, was hit on the westbound carriageway of the A40, near the Green Road roundabout in Headington.

The 27-year-old, from Wellington, New Zealand, was walking to a bus stop to return to his London home, when the accident happened.

Police are investigating the incident.

Mr Smith had been attending an end-of-season party at the rugby club, in Horspath Road, Oxford.

He was taken to the John Radcliffe Hospital, where he had his left leg amputated above the knee.

Mr Smith, who only joined Harlequins this season as a full back or centre, worked in the pharmacology department at the John Radcliffe.

"It's heartbreaking," said Harlequins' coach Matt Maudsley.

"He's an awesome bloke and a lovable, inspiring character.

"It's devastating for everyone at the club, but he'll get loads of support," said Mr Maudsley who visited him in hospital.

"Nathan's taken it really well and is already looking for the positives."

The accident happened only hours after Harlequins were relegated from South West 1 of the RFU Club Championship, although Mr Smith did not play in the game against Clevedon that sent them down.

"Relegation's not an issue any more," said Mr Maudsley. "Nathan's injury has put matters into perspective."