Marine police today called for stricter rules over powerful water bikes after a rider was seriously injured.

Acting Sgt Simon Lofting said the 49-year-old Witham man, who is in Colchester General Hospital following a collision off St Osyth, was "lucky to be alive".

The rider of the other water bike, a 12-year-old boy, escaped injury.

Sgt Lofting, who is appealing for witnesses to the collision, said: "It was an accident waiting to happen and what occurred was serious and very nasty.

"We are one of the only countries in the world where there is nothing governing the use of craft.

"It is yet another warning and he has had a very, very lucky escape."

There was a similar accident in the same area two years ago and he urged water bikers to take care, and said they should take a training course.

"These are very powerful and fast machines and can be very dangerous."

The collision happened about 800 yards offshore, close to Seawick and Hutleys caravan parks.

It appeared the two craft collided head-on, said Sgt Lofting.

The man from Witham suffered serious head injuries including severe cuts and a fractured cheek bone. His condition is said to be stable.

Both craft have been seized by the police while they investigate. One was quite badly damaged.

Anyone who saw the incident, at about 3.20pm on Sunday, is asked to ring police on 01621 782121.

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