Joe Sweeney, 45, was left critically ill after being struck by a car whilst out cycling in the town’s High Street.

The religious education teacher at St Benedict’s High School in Linwood was in a collision with a Ford Mondeo vehicle last Wednesday (April 30) at around 8.40am.

It’s understood Mr Sweeney’s condition is still life-threatening as this is the second serious injury he has suffered after being involved in a similar accident before.

A spokesman for Renfrewshire Council said: “Joe is making progress. He is now conscious and breathing independently.

“He is also responding to basic instructions. While this is encouraging he remains very unwell.” As The Gazette broke the worrying news, prayers flooded in for the popular teacher, with pupils and colleagues taking to social media to wish him a speedy recovery.

Mrs Elizabeth Munro, acting head at St Benedict’s, said: “On his way to St Benedict’s, Mr Sweeney was involved in a road accident. He is in the Southern General Hospital. Please remember him in your prayers.” Mr Sweeney was initially taken to the Royal Alexandra Hospital in Paisley before being transferred to the Southern General Hospital where he underwent an operation last Thursday.

The teacher, who is from Ayrshire, was wearing a safety helmet at the time of the collision.

It’s understood this is the second time he has been involved in an accident whilst out cycling.

Both current and former pupils contacted The Gazette to express their concern over the much-loved teacher’s condition.

Jean Todd commented on Facebook: “So sad, thoughts and prayers with him and his family and friends.” Jamie Leigh Gordon added: “Get well soon Mr Sweeney, keep fighting.” Nicole Mcintyre was shocked to hear this was the second time he was involved in a road accident.

She said: “Can’t believe this has happened again. You can do this Mr Sweeney, done it before.

"I’ve got every faith in you — such amazing teacher and everyone loves you.” Meanwhile, others described Mr Sweeney as the ‘best teacher.’ Shauna Fenton said: “Best teacher ever! He’s been through so much, get well soon Mr Sweeney.” Sophie Roxburgh added: “One of the best teachers in my school, keep fighting, no matter what he goes through he is always smiling — stay strong Mr Sweeney.” One witness, who lives at Thomson Avenue, the junction where Mr Sweeney was struck, told The Gazette: “I saw the police outside from my window.

“I didn’t see it happen but I saw the police right after it. I went out to get my paper after it and I’d been told someone had been knocked down and heard it was pretty bad.

“This is a bad junction and I think they need to close one end of it because it’s really difficult to see beyond it, it’s ridiculous.” Witnesses are also being urged to contact Police Scotland by phoning 101.