A MOTORBIKER believed to be visiting the Rossendale Bike Show is today in a critical condition after an accident on a small country lane.

Geoffrey Lomax, from Northern Ireland, sustained head injuries after the accident in Longworth Road, near Belmont, at 2.55pm yesterday.

Mr Lomax was air-lifted to Royal Preston Hospital and underwent an operation last night. He is now sedated.

His wife has flown from Northern Ireland to be by his side.

It is understood Mr Lomax was visiting the Rossendale Bike Show for the weekend and taken the opportunity to ride in the countryside.

Police said he was travelling towards Belmont Reservoir on a single track road when he encountered a sweeping lefthand bend.

Sgt Peter Sculpher, of Accrington Road Policing Unit, said it appeared part of the view of the road was obscured by trees and bushes.

Mr Lomax then met a VW Golf driven by an Anthony Howard, 24, of The Hall Coppice, Egerton.

Mr Lomax did not have any contact with the car but skidded and came off his bike, hitting his head on the road.

Mr Howard, who had a female passenger in his car at the time, rang 999.

Sgt Sculpher said: "We think Mr Lomax may have been visiting the Rossendale Bike Show.

"We believe riders are given routes they can go and ride on, that is what we are looking at at the moment."