A biker in his 20s is in a critical condition in hospital after the black Yamaha he was riding was in collision with a red Citroen C2.

Brielle Way, which is the main route into Sheerness, was closed for more than eight hours following the crash at 10.10am today.

It has now reopened but serious delays remained in the area through rush hour with queues back to the Sheppey Crossing.

Police are appealing for witnesses to come forward and say officers have discovered some unexplained brake fluid on the road.

Investigating officer PC Jamie Woodhams said: "We are particularly keen to hear from any HGV drivers who may have driven along Brielle Way and who later discovered a leak.

"I would urge those with information who have not already spoken to us, to call the witness line on 01622 798538 or email sciu.td@kent.pnn.police.uk quoting reference 10-0270.’

The biker was airlifted to St George's Hospital in south London with serious injures. It is understood the car driver was uninjured.

The closure of the road, from West Street, Blue Town, to Whiteways Road, Queenborough, led to severe congestion problems.

Motorists were diverted through Queenborough and Halfway, but the volume of traffic was worsened by roadworks.

Speaking around noon, a policeman at the scene said it was believed the road, which carries all heavy traffic from Sheerness docks, would be closed for four hours.

As well as the air ambulance, two ambulance cars and a land ambulance were sent to the scene as well as fire crews from Sheppey.