An inquest opened into the death of a community champion who was thrown from his vehicle in a crash in Bolton.

Aqeel Akhtar died in hospital on Monday, February 20 a few weeks after the crash on Halliwell Road on Saturday, January 28.

Today, Friday, at Bolton Coroner's Court, as an inquest opened into the death, coroner Professor Dr Alan Walsh heard from police coroner's officer Julie-Ann Hyde about the progress of the investigation.

Ms Hyde said the 60-year-old was thrown from his vehicle in a crash as he worked as a delivery driver.

The other vehicle was at "excessive speed", Ms Hyde said, and its driver did not remain at the scene.

Adjourning the inquest until the end of the investigation, Dr Walsh said: "I'm aware there are investigations and those investigations might not be completed for some time."

He added: "I understand Mr Akhtar was a well-known man in the community. I send my condolences to his family."

READ MORE: Bolton: Tribute to much-loved dad who died after crash.

In a tribute to Mr Akhtar, from Great Lever, his family said: "Our father was a respectful, god-fearing, family man. He spent his life devoted to his religion, family, and community.

"He passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family and loved ones.

"Over the years, he established charities supporting the local community in Bolton and across the world.

"He always had a passion to help those who are less fortunate, orphans, and widows.

"One of his last acts was to establish a new charity, Humanity World, which his friends and family endeavour to work upon.

"In terms of his religious work, he ran Radio Ramadan for a number of years and more recently took on segments at Salaam Bury Community Radio.

"He worked closely with local places of worship and religious organisations, winning multiple awards for his community work.

"He has led many pilgrims to perform Hajj and Umrah as a group leader.

"His impact is widely felt across the local and international community today. He was a well loved individual who will be sorely missed by many.

"As a family, we ask for this time to grieve our loss, be together, and remember his legacy and loving memories."

This article was written by Jack Tooth. To contact him, email jack.tooth@newsquest.co.uk or follow @JTRTooth on Twitter.