INVESTIGATIONS are underway by police and health and safety officials after a Swindon man died while taking part in a motorcycle race in Wales.

As reported in the late edition of the Advertiser, yesterday, the 36-year-old, a member of the Gloucestershire based NG Road Racing club, was competing in the championship event at the Pembrey Race Circuit in West Wales when his motorbike collided with four others.

It is believed that the accident happened when the five bikes were forced to swerve to avoid another bike, which had slowed down because of engine trouble.

The name of the dead man, who had taken part in several races during the weekend has not yet been released by police in West Wales. They are currently carrying out an investigation into how the accident happened.

Phil Davis, manager of the Pembrey Circuit said: "In 15 years there have only been three fatalities at the circuit. So when something like this happens it is very shocking."

Carmarthenshire County Council's head of public protection Philip Davies said: "We are working very closely with the police and the coroner's office to establish the cause. We will release a report as soon as that is completed."