jA MOTORBIKE race between two friends ended in tragedy when one of the pals died after hitting a tree at high speed.

Wayne Newham lost control of his bike on Gladstone Road in Farnworth last year.

His friend, Timothy Fylan, is accused of causing his death, by dangerous driving by racing with him.

But Fylan claims Mr Newham was leading because he knew the pub they were going to and he always drove very fast.

Bolton Crown Court heard Mr Newham crashed following the race last July.

David Friesner, prosecuting, said Fylan, Mr Newham and another friend who wasn't racing called Bob Womack, met up at Mr Newham's home in Farnworth, prior to going to a pub where other bikers gathered.

Mr Newham and Fylan were at the junction of Glynne Street and Albert Road waiting at the lights.

When the lights changed Mr Newham and Fylan accelerated away and within seconds had reached 50mph in a 30mph zone.

As Mr Newham entered the right hand bend of Albert Road he lost control and hit a tree. He died later of his injuries.

When Fylan was arrested he said his friend had accelerated away from the lights as he was leading the way because he knew where they were going.

He admitted that he drove off at speed and said with hindsight it was dangerous. But added that even if he had not been there Mr Newham would have driven at that speed.

(Proceeding)