VILLAGERS in Cherhill near Calne are in shock following the death of a motorcyclist on the A4 at the junction of Olivers Hill.

People living along the stretch of the main road heard the loud noise of the accident just after 11pm on Friday night and left their homes to see if they could help. They called the police and emergency services when they saw a 29-year-old motorcyclist lying by the road with his Kawasaki motorbike.

Some tried to help the stricken rider and one ran out with a blanket for him. But he died at the scene. One woman said the scene was extremely grim. A near neighbour described the biker as being “clearly in a terrible state.”

South West Ambulance Service said: “We attended with an ambulance, a community first responder, an operations officer and a critical care team.”

The road was shut as an investigation began. It stayed closed until 6am the following day.

Police said: “A Kawasaki ZX600 motorbike had been travelling along the A4 between Calne and Beckhampton when the collision occurred near Cherhill village. The motorcyclist, who is from the Marlborough area, died at the scene. His next of kin has been informed and our thoughts are with them at this difficult time.”

One man from the village said badgers and other wildlife often run out into the road which has a 40mph limit through the village.

PC Rich Hatch said: “We do not believe any other vehicles were involved in the collision.” But he urged anyone who might have dash cam footage to get in touch on 101.

Bridget Wayman, Wiltshire Council cabinet member for highways said: “We are sorry to hear of this tragic incident and our thoughts are with the motorcyclist’s family at this sad time. The coroner will hold an inquest in due course when the circumstances surrounding the incident will be carefully examined and we will respond to any findings from this inquest.”

Anyone with information should call the Collision Investigation Unit on 01380 861049. Alternatively, call 101.