Police hunt 'reckless' hit-and-run biker (From Gazette & Herald)

Police hunt 'reckless' hit-and-run biker

POLICE were quizzing bikers at a memorial service held today for Ralph Snowdon, the motorcyclist killed in a hit-and-run crash on the B1257 near Helmsley, to find out more information about the fatal incident.

A dedicated police team is still appealing for witnesses in its efforts to trace the biker who failed to stop after the crash on Saturday, May 28.

Officers were on the Stokesley to Helmsley road throughout Saturday afternoon, checking vehicles. They also visited the Superbikes meeting at Croft.

They are now trying to trace the rider of a black Suzuki GSXR motorcycle which was seen on the B1257 close to the collision on the afternoon of Saturday, May 28, who they say could have information vital to the inquiry.

Police last week revealed that 67-year-old Mr Snowdon, from Riccall, was forced off the road by a "dangerous" biker who was riding on the wrong side of a bend.

Witnesses say the motorcyclist, who was riding a large red sports motorcycle and wearing a dark helmet, slowed after the collision before quickly accelerating and driving off.

Detective Superintendent Barry Honeysett said the man or woman they were looking for was a "dangerous" and "reckless" rider.

"From the information we have at present, Ralph Snowdon was forced off the road by someone who rode at a speed and in a manner that would shock motorcyclists and other drivers alike," he said.

"The riding showed a complete disregard for the safety of other road users, especially motorcyclists because they are more vulnerable."

Det Supt Honeysett said the other motorcycle was being driven on a racing line through a right-hand bend, and was on the wrong side of the road when it collided with Mr Snowdon, so much so that it actually passed between Mr Snowdon and the kerb. Mr Snowdon's death is being treated as an unlawful killing.

In Saturday's check, officers pulled over 343 vehicles near Chop Gate for questioning and from those they found 13 drivers and riders who had been on the road the day Mr Snowdon was killed.

Eight thousand leaflets appealing for information about the crash were handed over during the weekend at the Croft Circuit in Croft-on-Tees, near Northallerton.

Posters have also been placed around the area appealing for information on the crash.

Mr Snowdon's funeral took place today.

An inquest into his death has been opened and adjourned.

Anyone with information about the crash should contact the police on (01723) 509555.

Updated: 10:30 Wednesday, June 08, 2005