Christchurch motorcyclist dies in crash

The Queen's Birthday Weekend road toll rose to two yesterday when a Christchurch motorcyclist died after a head-on collision with a car.

Edgar David Ridgen, 46, was returning home in heavy rain from the West Coast when the collision happened near Jacksons.

The Land Transport Safety Authority said that, although the deaths were regrettable, the low toll was a sign drivers were beginning to reduce speeds.

"We are pleased that the toll is lower than it has been in recent years and drivers need to take some credit for that." authority spokesman Andy Knackstedt said.

Peter Rodney Hodgins, 77, died on Saturday when his car was hit by a train at a level crossing in Christchurch.

Last Queen's Birthday Weekend there were five road deaths.

- NZPA