A MOTORCYCLIST was killed in a smash on the M61 at Chorley.

The man, who has not yet been named, collided with the back of a DAF lorry on the southbound side near junction eight at 7.50pm yesterday.

The impact caused him to collide with another two saloon cars before he was thrown from his motorcycle into the central reservation.

His motorbike travelled a further 150 metres down the carriageway in pieces, then burst into flames.

Two passing nurses left their cars to give the man first aid but he was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics.

The southbound carriageway was closed for four hours while police investigated and debris was cleared.

Police were today attempting to contact the man's relatives and appealing for witnesses.

A spokesman said: "On arrival, it was ascertained the male rider of the motorcycle, who came to rest against the central reservation, was being given first aid by two passing nurses and was described as being in a serious condition.

"Despite the efforts of paramedics, the motorcyclist was pronounced deceased at the scene."

Motorists who witnessed the crash are asked to contact the road police at Samlesbury on 01772 203203 or any police station.