MOTORCYCLIST Michael Fletcher, 31, of Gildercliffe, Scarborough, is in a critical condition in hospital after suffering head injuries in a crash in the village of Nawton, on the A170 Scarborough to Thirsk road.

He was airlifted to Leeds General Infirmary. His pillion passenger, Christine Duffield, 26, is recovering in Scarborough General with a broken arm and leg. Police said Mr Fletcher's motorcycle failed to negotiate a sharp bend.