A CHAMPION motorbike trials rider was airlifted to hospital after coming off his bike in a national competition held at Salt Moor, Rossendale.

Stephen Colley, 24, from Onchan on the Isle of Man, was flown to the Royal Preston Hospital in the Lancashire Police Helicopter after the accident.

The accident happened during the first round of the 1996 British Motorcycle Trials Championships which was organised by Bolton Motocross Club.

Stephen Colley, who is ranked eighth in the world, was defending his national title.

Before being airlifted to hospital he was treated at the scene by volunteers from Rossendale Search and Rescue.

Rescue team spokesman Andy Simpson said: "Our team members were on safety watch all day.

"The rider had fallen into a steep-sided gully and his bike had landed on top of him.

"We gave him first aid at the scene and then put him in a body splint to get him out of the gully and onto the helicopter.

"Our team doctor Bob Stokes accompanied him to the hospital."

Mr Colley was treated for hip, back and internal injuries. He is hoping to be transferred to hospital on the Isle of Man today.

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