POLICE today warned motorcyclists to be extra vigilant on North Yorkshire's roads after a rider was killed and another seriously injured over the Bank Holiday weekend.

The motorcyclist who died was in a crash on the A171 near Whitby.

The second biker was hurt on the A64 near York last night.

A spokesman for York Police said today: "Motorcyclists should enjoy the county's roads, but take the long and winding roads with caution and ride with caution in mind, especially at this time of year when everyone is getting their bikes out."

The motorcyclist injured in the A64 accident was said to be in a serious condition in York Hospital today.

The man, who is believed to be from the Scunthorpe area, was riding a blue Yamaha R6 on the A64 towards York near the crossroads for Towthorpe and Stockton-on-the-Forest shortly after 7.30pm.

He was overtaking slow-moving traffic when he was in collision with a black Honda Civic car turning right near to Thompson's Fish and Chip Shop.

Sergeant Dave Hopper, from York Police, said: "Police are appealing for witnesses to the collision and would also like to hear from anyone who saw a blue Yamaha motorcycle travelling on the A64 from Scarborough, possible in company with another blue Yamaha."

The driver of the Honda Civic is thought to be from the Worksop area.

Anyone with information should contact TC Chris Redin on 01904 669884

The motorcyclist killed on the A171 Scarborough to Whitby Road has been named as Martin David Pearson from the Lealholm area of Whitby.

The man had been riding a blue and white Suzuki motorbike at 5.40pm on Friday when he collided head-on with a green Peugeot 206.

All three occupants of the car, who were from the Stockton area, were treated for minor injuries at Scarborough General Hospital.

Anyone who witnessed the accident should contact TC Dan Hughes on 01723 509555.

Updated: 10:06 Monday, April 12, 2004