A MOTORCYCLIST critically injured in a horrific accident in which his bike and the car it collided with burst into flames remains in a stable condition.

The 53-year-old rider of the Suzuki GSF, from Pittington, County Durham, was thrown in the air by the force of the collision at Thinford, near Spennymoor, last Wednesday, August 12.

He was later carried away from the burning wreckage of his machine by paramedics and members of the public who stepped into help.

He suffered multiple fractures and internal injuries and is believed to have been placed in a medically induced coma and undergone surgery at James Cook University Hospital in Middlesbrough.

The 40-year-old female driver of the other vehicle, a Renault Megane, suffered minor injuries and declined hospital treatment.

Durham Road Policing Unit has tweeted a link to a Facebook page set up by the motorcyclist’s family to update people on his condition.

Last night (Monday, August 17) a post stated: “He has had another good night. He’s been a bit lighter with his sedation. Nurses are pleased with him so far. I won’t know any more until doctors have been around mid morning. Thanks again for the love.”

This was followed this morning (Tuesday) by: “Morning All thankfully nothing to report this morning. He’s had another very stable night and no change at all from yesterday's update. He’s off for a CT scan today then more surgery planned.”

Durham Police are asking anyone who witnessed the collision or saw the vehicles immediately before it occurred, just before 3.15pm, to contact investigators on 0191 3752159.