TWO separate accidents on the same stretch of road claimed the life of a motorcyclist and injured a 12-year-old girl.

The accidents happened within moments of each other at about 9pm on Monday at the junction of Holmers Farm Way and Redman Road, in Cressex, High Wycombe.

In the first accident, a Vauxhall Nova was in collision with the girl. The four male occupants abandoned the car and left the scene, according to police.

Moments later motorcyclist Peter Gordon, 26, of Beech Avenue, Lane End, collided with a road sign. Police say they are investigating reports that he swerved to avoid a toddler who ran into the road from Holmers Court. But they have been unable to confirm this as they have not located the child involved.

One witness to the accident said: "The motorcyclist was thrown through the air. I was panicking and getting blankets for him."

Peter was taken to Wycombe Hospital but later died of his injuries.

The 12-year-old girl was taken to Wycombe Hospital where she was treated for a fractured toe, bruising and shock.

There have been at least three accidents between Holmers Farm Way and the Handy Cross roundabout this year and it is the second involving a motorcyclist.

Police are appealing for witnesses to the accidents and they are particularly keen to trace the family of the toddler involved.

Witnesses should call PC Richard Vine of Amersham Traffic Base on 01494 465888.