A BOLTON father died in a motorcycle smash after the bike he was riding hit a road barrier.

Michael Rushworth, aged 54, lost control of his black Honda bike between the M65 and the A6 at Bamber Bridge at 4.25 on Sunday.

He veered across the road and hit the central barrier, police said.

He was taken to Royal Preston Hospital but medics were unable to save him.

His family is being supported by specially trained officers.

The road was closed for four hours yesterday as officers investigated the crash.

Police are asking any witnesses to come forward.

Road policing officer Sgt Malcolm Bell said: “This was a tragic accident where a man has unfortunately lost his life.

“If you witnessed this incident or think you may have seen this man on his motorcycle in the time leading up it, please make contact with us.”

Mr Rushworth - thought to be a father of five - was born in Bolton and went to Tonge High School.

He lived in Leyland and worked for Genesis It & Telecommunications near Preston.

Anyone with information can contact police on 101 quoting incident reference 1020 of October 4.