POLICE are appealing for witnesses to a road smash that left a motorcyclist in hospital this morning.

The collision occurred between a motorbike and a taxi on Acklam Road in Middlesbrough at about 2.40am - when a number of people will have been heading home from a night out.

The accident happened after the Dajiang motorbike pulled out of Church Lane into Acklam Road, hitting a black and yellow Vauxhall Vectra taxi.

As a result, the two men on the bike suffered injuries and were taken to James Cook University Hospital for treatment.

The rider - a 24-year-old from Acklam - sustained a broken leg and head injuries, but his condition is not believed to be life threatening. However, he has been detained in hospital.

The passenger - a 23-year-old also from Acklam - suffered cuts to his hand, chest pain and abrasions, but was released after treatment.

Any witnesses to the accident, who have not yet come forward, or anyone who saw the bike on Church Lane or the taxi on Acklam Road just prior to the crash, should call Pc Bruce Thorpe at Cleveland's Road Policing Unit on 01642-301552.