A MOTORCYCLIST who suffered life-threatening injuries in a crash on the A120 was taking part in the Essex Motorcycle Run.

A statement released by Essex and Herts Air Ambulance confirmed the rider was taking part in the charity event, which sees thousands of bikers descend on Harwich every year in aid of the service.

The man suffered serious injuries after a trailer became detached from its car and collided with his bike.

Essex Police was called to the A120 near the Phoenix Bridge at around 1.20pm yesterday after a Mazda 6 estate towing a trailer became detached and drifted across to the opposite Harwich-bound carriageway.

It collided with a Ducati motorcycle, ridden by a man aged in his 60s and from the Sudbury area.

The motorcyclist suffered a head injury, which is described as life threatening. He was taken to Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge.

The car driver, a man aged in his 40s from Manningtree, was not injured.

Jackie Brown, communications manager for Essex and Herts Air Ambulance, said: "Sadly we can confirm that the motorcyclist involved in yesterday’s accident on the A120 was participating in our Essex Motorcycle Run.

"Following a police statement issued yesterday regarding the incident, we have had a message from the family of the patient as they would like to thank all of the services that attended and are appealing for any witnesses.

"The patient is being treated at Addenbrooke's Hospital."

The road was closed while emergency services, including an air ambulance, were on the scene carrying out forensic examination work.

Police are appealing for witnesses and anyone who has dash cam footage to contact the Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 101 or email collisionappeal@essex.pnn.police.uk