POLICE have today issued an urgent appeal for witnesses to the horrific accident on the M5 between Taunton and Wellington yesterday.

A motorcyclist is critically ill in hospital with serious head injuries following the crash at 1.55pm.

He was riding a three-wheel 'Can-Am' bike which was in collision with a silver Peugeot 406 estate car.

The smash took place on the southbound carriageway of the motorway between Junction 25 (Taunton) and Taunton Deane Services.

The southbound carriageway of the M5 was closed for four hours while police collision investigators examined the scene and recovered the motorcycle.

The emergency services have been praised for their handling of the incident - click on the Related Link on this page to read more.

A 43-year-old man was arrested and has since been released on bail pending further enquiries.

A police spokesman said: "We are urgently seeking witnesses.

"Anyone who saw the incident or saw a group of motorcyclists, including this unusual three wheeler, are asked to contact the Collision Investigation Unit on 0845-4567000."