The scene of the fatal accident on the M20 today. Picture: Nigel Brown

A motorcylist, believed to be in his late 50s, died yesterday after a crash on the M20.

It is thought the man lost control of his bike and came off, before a second motorcylist riding with him hit him.

He is in a London hospital with serious injuries to his head and pelvis.

The accident happened on the coastbound carriageway of the M20 between junctions 1 and 2 at around 3.40pm

The incident caused severe tailbacks and drivers were advised to seek alternative routes. The motorway was fully re-opened and traffic running freely again shortly after 9pm last night.

Chief Inspector Martin Cunningham thanked motorists for their patience: "We want to apologise to road users for any delays this incident caused to their journeys yesterday and I would especially like to thank those motorists who were stuck in the tailbacks behind the incident for the patience and understanding they showed while we investigated this serious collision.

"We would like to hear from anyone who may have witnessed the collision or may have any information which could help this investigation".

Anyone who saw the collision or has any information about this the incident is asked to call the Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 01622 798538.