A 52-YEAR-OLD man was killed when his motorbike collided with a car during a day trip to Wales.

Malcolm Dixon, from Rossendale, was among a number of riders taking part in the organised event from Manchester.

He was killed as the group travelled along the A494 between Bala and Dolgellau, Brithdir, Gwynedd.

Police said Mr Dixon lost control of his bike on a left-hand bend.

A spokesman for police in North Wales said: "He was riding ahead of the group of bikes when he lost control on a left hand bend. He collided with a car coming from the opposite direction containing a family.

"Mr Dixon was left with fatal injuries as a result of the accident and the family were all treated for shock at the scene."

The road is notorious among locals and there have been seven fatal accidents involving motorcyclists in the past two weeks. The police have now launched a special initiative named Operation Focus to promote safe riding among motorbike enthusiasts.

The incident is still under police investigation.