A MAN who saw an accident that left a biker badly hurt is being urged to contact police.

Peter Crisp, 30, of Sherburn Hill, suffered injuries including a fractured neck and spine, and broken ribs, and is still in hospital after the accident on Tuesday, March 26.

The Philips factory worker was in intensive care, but is now on an ordinary ward.

Mr Crisp swerved his Suzuki machine to avoid a tractor pulling a seed drill that turned out of a farm entrance on Local Avenue, Sherburn Hill, at about 4.10pm.

He did not hit the tractor but came off his bike and was knocked unconscious.

Police believe there was a man walking on a path who had to get out of the way of the stricken machine.

Mr Crisp's wife, Helen, a nurse, said he was "doing well" in hospital and had full mobility, but could not remember the accident.

"He can remember things we were doing on the morning but can't remember getting the bike out of the garage.

"This witness is essential. We would desperately like him to come forward. Peter would like to know what happened. I think he is probably local.''

A police spokesman said: "We are particularly anxious to trace a middle-aged or elderly man on the footpath who had to move sharply to avoid the bike as the rider lost control.''

The man, and anyone else who saw the accident, is urged to contact PC Christine Wood in the force's accident unit on 0191-386 4929.