A MOTORCYCLIST has died after colliding with metal fencing.

Emergency services were called just after 8pm on Tuesday after the collision in Whitley Bay.

It is believed the motorcycle had been riding off-road at Foxhunters playing fields when the rider and pillion passenger have collided with the fence.

They have then left the scene before contacting an ambulance.

The 34-year-old man who was believed to have been driving the motorcycle was taken to hospital with critical injuries but he died a short time later.

The pillion passenger, a 20-year-old woman, also received medical attention in hospital but she was not seriously injured.

Police have now launched an investigation into the incident and specialist officers are supporting the family of the motorcyclist at this difficult time.

Sergeant Dave Roberts, of Northumbria Police’s Motor Patrols Department, said: “This is a tragic incident that has sadly resulted in the death of the motorcyclist.

“We are working hard to establish exactly what has happened and specialist officers are continuing to support the family at this time.

“Our enquiries will continue over the coming days and weeks but we need anyone who may have witnessed what happened to get in touch.

“The incident is believed to have happened between 7.30pm and 8pm so if you saw or heard a motorcycle around that time then please get in touch.”

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101.