TWO MOTORCYCLISTS lost their lives in separate road traffic collisions in Dorset over the Bank Holiday weekend.

Officers are investigating two fatal collisions, and are appealing for witnesses or anyone with information on either incident to come forward.

At 12.57pm on Sunday, May 30, police received reports of a road traffic accident on Belle Vue Road in Bournemouth involved a black Honda HR-V car and a black Suzuki motorcycle.

The motorcycle rider – a 43-year-old man from Bournemouth – was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the car, a Christchurch man in his 60s, escaped the crash unscathed.

Police Sergeant Lee Savage, of the traffic unit, said: “My thoughts are with the family and friends of the motorcycle rider who very sadly died. A thorough investigation is taking place to establish the full circumstances of this collision.

“I would urge anyone who witnessed the incident, or the manner of driving of the vehicles involved prior to it, to please contact us. I would also like to hear from any motorists who may have captured anything of relevance on dashcam.”

Less than seven hours later, officers were notified of an incident on Coombe Road in Winterbourne Steepleton on Sunday.

The accident, involving a black Harley Davidson motorcycle and a grey Ford Focus, took place at 7.23pm.

The motorcyclist – a man in his 50s and from Yeovil – died at the scene.

Police Sergeant Mark Scammell, of the traffic unit, said: “Tragically, the motorcyclist lost his life and my thoughts go out to his family and friends.

“We are trying to establish what exactly happened and are conducting a thorough investigation of the scene.

“Any witnesses who have not spoken with police yet or anyone who may have information that could assist our investigation is asked to contact us as soon as possible.

“In addition, I am keen to hear from anyone who might have captured relevant dashcam footage.

“I would like to thank any affected motorists for their patience during the necessary road closure, which allows us to respond to the incident and collect evidence in a safe way.”