A MOTORCYCLIST lost an arm and suffered two broken legs after colliding with a car on the A675 between Abbey Village and Belmont.

William Burchell, 36, of Clover Field, Clayton-le-Woods, was taken by helicopter to Preston Royal Hospital, after the accident, at 3.10pm yesterday..

He was in a critical condition today.

Police said Mr Burchell was travelling from Belmont towards Abbey Village when he collided with a red Ford Escort, driven by Catherine Henderson, 37, of Markland Hill Lane, Bolton.

The accident happened a mile away from Abbey Village just before Watsons farm.

The Escort was stationary and had been travelling in the same direction. Police said it was indicating to turn right into a parking area. There was another vehicle waiting behind the Escort.

Mr Burchell was following behind a friend. Police said they rode round a left hand bend and decided to overtake the two stationary vehicles. As Mr Burchell overtook, the Escort began turning right and he collided with the front off-side wing of the car. Mr Burchell lost control of his 900cc Honda bike, left the road and landed in woodland. His bike landed 15ft from the road, and his left arm was severed below the shoulder, as he hit trees. He also suffered two broken legs.

Firefighters from Darwen cut through hedgerow and trees to get to him. The Mountain Rescue Team were also called to the scene and treated Catherine Henderson for shock.

Police are investigating the incident and have appealed for witnesses.

In particular they would like to trace the driver of a metallic blue Renault four door saloon, which was travelling from Abbey Village towards Belmont at the time of the accident.

The road was closed for an hour between the Hare and Hounds Pub and Belmont.

Anyone with information should contact Chorley Police on 01257 269021.

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