A MOTORCYCLIST was left with three broken ribs after being knocked of his bike by a car while riding on the motorway.

The biker, who was riding a red Triumph tiger motorcycle, is thought to have been thrown into the central reservation of the A1M near Bowburn.

It happened near junction 61 just after 12.30pm on Saturday and involved a grey Ford fiesta.

A police spokesperson said: "It is believed the driver of the Fiesta moved into lane two and collided with the motorbike throwing the rider into the central reservation point."

The biker was taken to the University Hospital of North Durham with three broken ribs.

A 19-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of failing to stop and has since been released under investigation.

Police are now appealing for anyone who may have witnessed the collision or anyone with dashcam footage to come forward.

  • Anyone with information is asked to call PC Dave Brawn on 101 quoting reference number 199 of March 23.