POLICE have made a direct appeal to an unknown motorcyclist, who stopped at the scene of a fatal motorbike accident on a moors road nearly three months ago.

Officers investigating a crash in which Middlesbrough motorcyclist Philip Broadley, 46, died on a North York Moors road, have appealed for another rider to come forward.

The collision happened in August, when Mr Broadley, from Normanby, left the road between Chop Gate and Great Broughton and collided with a hedge. He had been riding in company with another motorcyclist and pillion passenger who were on a red Honda.

Despite the efforts of paramedics, Mr Broadley died at the scene.

Officers with North Yorkshire Police are now trying to identify another motorcyclist who stopped at the crash, possibly very soon after it happened. However, they left before police arrived and did not pass on any contact details.

The only information police have about the rider is that the person rode a dark-coloured motorbike and wore dark-coloured leathers.

The accident happened on the B1257 at 8.10pm on Thursday, August 20.

Sergeant Ian Pope, of the Major Collision Investigation Team, said: “The rider stopped at the scene but left before the police arrived. We need to speak to them to see if they saw the collision happen, or have any other evidence that could help us in this enquiry.

“We do not believe they were involved and want to speak to them only as a witness, so they should have no fear in coming forwards.”

Sgt Pope made a direct appeal to the rider, saying: “Your information could be vital to our investigation to find out how Phillip died.

“Not only for us, but for his family who want to know what happened to him on that day.

“Your welfare is also important to us and I want to make sure that you are receiving the appropriate care. It’s very important that you contact us."

If you are the rider that stopped at the scene, contact North Yorkshire Police on 101 and ask for the Sergeant Ian Pope or email; ian.pope@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk