Police are appealing for witnesses following a collision which led to 'life-changing' injuries for a motorcyclist.

The biker was injured in a crash in Purbeck which closed a busy route. Major traffic queues formed in the Sandford area near Wareham after a crash involving two vehicles.

The 30-year-old man was airlifted to Southampton General Hospital with serious injuries.

Inspector Joe Pardey, of the traffic unit, said: “I am appealing to anyone who witnessed the collision or saw the manner of driving or riding immediately prior to the incident to please call Dorset Police.

“I am also keen to hear from anyone who may have any relevant dashcam footage.

"Finally, I would like to thank motorists for their patience and understanding during the road closure, which was entirely necessary to allow us to examine the scene and treat the injured rider."

The A351 Sandford Road was shut both ways due to the incident, which happened between the A35 Bakers Arms Roundabout and the B3075 Morden Road.

Emergency services were alerted at just before 4.30pm yesterday. The road reopened at just after 7pm but police said the A35 remains busy due to previously diverted traffic.

The vehicles involved in the crash were a black Honda motorcycle and a black Mercedes Sprinter van, both registered to local keepers. Police said the biker suffered a leg injury but it is not thought the injury is serious.

A diversion was in place via the A35 and the B3075 Chitten Hill.

Drivers were reporting big queues between Wareham and Lytchett Minster.