Two motorcyclists seriously injured after smash on A1 (M) near Stevenage

TWO motorcyclists, one from Letchworth GC, sustained serious injuries after crashing on the A1 (M) near Stevenage last night.

The motorbikes were involved in a collision with a Renault Megane just after 6pm on the northbound carriageway close to junction 8. A woman pillion passenger on one of the bikes suffered lower leg and ankle injuries.

Ambulance service spokesman Gary Sanderson who attended the collision, said: "A 61 year old man from Letchworth GC came off his motorbike and he sustained serious injuries. Following rapid treatment and stabilisation by paramedics, he was rushed to an awaiting trauma team at the Lister hospital."

A man (49), who was driving another bike involved in the collision, sustained an ankle injury. His pillion, a woman (43), received a lower leg and ankle injury. They were also taken to the Lister hospital. They were both from Hilgay in Norfolk.

Mr Sanderson added: "Prior to our arrival, there was a first aider who was passing by at the time of the crash, who stopped to help. She done a very good job and her assistance was very much appreciated."

The motorway was shut from junction 7 and all traffic was diverted through Stevenage whilst the emergency services dealt with the incident.

Today police were still investigating the incident and made an appeal for witnesses, especially the driver of a Red Astra.

Investigating officer Dc Dee Rayner said: "We are investigating the full circumstances of this collision and initial inquiries have led us to believe there may have been key witnesses to this collision.

"We're looking to speak specifically to a driver of a red Astra, believed to be an R registration or an Astra close to this age.

"We believe they may have information which could help our investigation and I would urge them to contact police immediately."

Anyone with information should call 0845 3300222.