A MAN has suffered extensive injuries after being involved in a crash on a stolen motorbike.

The 26-year-old man was hurt in a smash on Wiltshire Way in Hartlepool in the early hours of today.

Two men were riding on a Yamaha off-road motorcycle when it collided with a Ford Fiesta at 1.20am.

After the collision the two men riding on the motorcycle got back onto the bike and made off.

The pair were found a short time later, and the 26-year-old was taken to the University Hospital of North Tees where he was detained for treatment to a fractured skull, two fractures to the spine, a fracture to his left foot and grazing to his knee.

The 41-year-old driver of the Fiesta was unhurt.

A 21-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of aggravated vehicle taking.

Anyone with information can contact Sergeant Kevin Taylor of the Roads Policing Unit on 01642-301552 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.