A MOTORCYCLIST was killed in a road smash over the Bank Holiday weekend - when two other leisure enthusiasts escaped serious injury in separate accidents.

Neil Lawrenson, aged 23, was riding his Suzuki 600cc on the A49 Wigan Road when it collided with a Ford Escort.

Mr Lawrenson, of Preston Road, Coppull, died of his injuries. Police are appealing for witnesses.

The Escort driver, Steven Baker, aged 23, of Leyland, was unhurt.

A spokesman for Chorley Police said: "The accident happened at around 1pm on Saturday afternoon at the junction of Wigan Road and Heald House Road.

"We are appealing for information and anyone who saw anything should contact Chorley Police on 269021."

A neighbour of Mr Lawrenson said: "He kept himself to himself and he was a nice, quiet lad."

The pilot of a microlight escaped unhurt after he crash landed in fields near Chorley Hospital.

Dr Mark Chamberlain, of Catforth, near Preston, was flying from Gloucester to Samlesbury airfield on Saturday evening when the engine cut out.

The accident happened shortly before 8.30pm. Dr Chamberlain was forced to land in a field.

A spokeswoman for Chorley Police said: "We received reports of an aircraft coming down at the rear of the hospital.

"Shortly afterwards, a fixed-wing aircraft landed heavily in a field, damaging the undercarriage. It appears the engine failed and the pilot was forced to land."

A camper who fell 70 feet down a Chorley quarry on Sunday night is recovering in hospital.

David Ashton, 28, of Leyland, was camping with friends at Denham Lane Quarry, Brindle.

Police said Mr Ashton, suffered a broken pelvis, back injuries and severe cuts and grazes.

Mr Ashton was said to be in a poorly but stable condition at Royal Preston Hospital as the Citizen went to press. His injuries were not considered life-threatening.

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