A MAN is in a critical condition after a crash between a car and a motorbike in Studland on Tuesday night.

Emergency services were called to Ferry Road close to the junction at the entrance to the Knoll House Hotel in Studland village following reports of a collision around 9.10pm.

Ferry Road through Studland was closed while emergency services dealt with the incident.

The collision involved a black Suzuki motorcycle and a silver Audi S8.

A Dorset Police spokesperson said the rider of the motorcycle, a Bournemouth man aged in his 20s, was taken to Poole Hospital for injuries to his leg and head that were not initially believed to be life-changing or life-threatening.

While in hospital, the man’s condition deteriorated and he was transferred to Southampton General Hospital, where he remains in a critical condition.

The rider’s pillion passenger, a 17-year-old girl from Austria, was taken to hospital with a fracture to her arm and leg.

As a result of the crash, police also stopped the Sandbanks chain ferry, but the ferry was running as normal this morning.

A 55-year-old Swanage man has been arrested on suspicion of driving offences and is assisting officers with their enquiries.

Police Sergeant Joe Pardey, of the traffic unit, said: "I am appealing for anyone who may have witnessed this collision and has yet to speak to officers to please contact police.

"I would also like to thank members of the public for their patience and understanding during the road closure, which was necessary to allow the emergency services to carry out their work."

The road was reopened at around 11.50pm and police left the scene at 2.30am.