TWO 20-year-old men have been arrested in connection with a crash in which two 'racing' drivers ploughed into a group of pedestrians.

The smash happened in St Helens Road, Daubhill, at about 11.30pm on Sunday, leaving a 12-year-old boy, who was walking along the street at the time, with “life changing injuries” 

He is now in a serious condition in hospital, while a 51-year-old man, who was also injured, is not thought to be in a life threatening condition.

The accident happened when two silver Vauxhall Astra cars crashed and hit a BMW 320 that was pulling into the road.

One of the Astra drivers stayed at the scene and was taken to hospital after suffering minor injuries. He has since been arrested.

The other Astra driver walked away from the scene but handed himself into the police today.

Both men are from Bolton and have been arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving and racing on a public highway. They are now being quizzed by police.

Sgt Lee Westhead, from the police's serious collision investigation unit, said: "The young boy is fighting for his life and continues to be treated by extremely experienced medical professionals.

"All we can say at the moment is that his injuries are life-threatening and we are just hoping he pulls through.

"Both he and the older man who was injured were innocent pedestrians returning from evening prayers.

"Everything we have established from the investigation and witnesses tells us the men in the Astras were racing and the damage left in their wake is simply devastating.

"If anyone was in the area and saw what happened or the cars beforehand and is yet to talk to the police, please get in touch."

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 0161 8564741.