A motorcyclist was killed in a crash in Skipton last night.

The 49-year-old man’s blue machine burst into flames after the collision with a grey Hyundai car on the A65 at the junction with the A6131 Knaresborough Road at about 9.20pm.

The man, of Trawden, Lancashire, was taken to Leeds General Infirmary where he was pronounced dead. He is not being named by police until relatives have been informed.

Police have appealed to anyone who witnessed the collision or saw either vehicle prior to the crash to come forward.

Officers are also trying to trace a man who stopped at the scene and used a fire extinguisher on the burning motorcycle. He left without leaving his details.

Traffic Sergeant Pete Stringer, of Skipton Roads Policing Group, said: “It is important that the man who helped at the scene comes forward as he could be a key witness.

“I urge him and anyone else who can help with our inquiries to make contact with the police as soon as possible.”

Anyone who can help is urged to contact Sgt Stringer or Traffic Constable Paul Cockerill at the Skipton Roads Policing Group on 101.