POLICE have launched an appeal for witnesses after a motorcyclist has died at the scene of a crash on the M25.

Essex Police was called at about 11.40pm last night with reports of a serious crash involving a car and motorbike at the Mardyke Junction.

Paramedics were called to the scene but sadly, despite their best efforts, the motorcyclist died at the scene.

Part of the roundabout was closed for several hours while emergency services worked at the scene, and was re-opened about 10.30am this morning.

Prior to the fatal crash, the car had been involved in a pursuit involving Kent Police. 

The Independent Office for Police Conduct is independently investigating the circumstances surrounding the police pursuit, following a mandatory referral by Kent Police.

An Essex Police spokesman said: "If you have any dashcam footage from the incident or information, please contact us quoting incident number 1331 of Sunday April 14.

"You can let us know by submitting a report on our website or by using our online Live Chat service available Monday to Friday - excluding public holidays - between 10am and 9pm.

"Visit www.essex.police.uk/digital101 to find out more about our website reporting services.

"Alternatively you can call us on 101.

"In an emergency always call 999.

"If you would like to make an anonymous report you can contact independent charity Crimestoppers, by visiting their website or by calling 0800 555 111."