An Irish cyclist has died while taking part in a cycling event in Belgium.

The 56-year-old man was riding alongside his 29-year-old son when he collapsed during the 129 kilometre Tour of Flanders Cyclo.

He became ill on the Oude Kwaremont yesterday.

The cobbled road leading up the Kluisberg Hill is a notoriously difficult part of the course.

However despite the quick intervention of first aid teams, he died at the scene.

Some 16,000 enthusiasts from all over the world were taking part in the event at the time.

The Department of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that they are providing consular assistance to the man's family.