A 16-year-old boy left fighting for his life after a crash on an off-road bike remained in a critical condition today.

Josh Ward suffered serious injuries when his ‘pit’ bike was in collision with a silver Ford Fiesta in Yeadon.

It is believed he was not wearing a crash helmet.

Josh, of Guiseley and a pupil at Benton Park School in Rawdon, was taken to Leeds General Infirmary after the incident in Gill Lane at about 1.40pm on Saturday.

A West Yorkshire Police spokesman yesterday confirmed the teenager was still in hospital and remained “critical but stable”.

David Foley, head teacher at Benton Park, said: “The whole school wishes him a full and speedy recovery.

“Our thoughts are with him, his family and friends and we have ensured there is support available within the school for anyone who needs it.”

Officers in West Yorkshire Police’s Major Collision Enquiry Team are investigating the incident and have made an appeal for witnesses.

Following the accident, councillors warned off-road bikers not to use public highways.

Police have urged any witnesses to the accident to call PC Julian Burgin on (01924) 293047.