A PENSIONER was one of two drivers who died after an horrific midnight pile-up.

A blue Ford Transit Van and a green Ford Maverick were in a head-on collision on Atherleigh Way, Leigh, just before midnight last Friday.

The driver of the car, William Smith, aged 72, of Smithfield Stables, East Lancs Road, Lowton, died at the scene. His body was cut from the wreckage by firefighters. Van driver, Peter McDonald, aged 23, of Falkirk, Scotland, was taken to the Royal Bolton Hospital but died later.

He was also trapped in his vehicle and had to be cut free.

It was reported that there was a passenger in the van who fled the scene, but police say this was not true.

The road was closed for seven hours after the accident.

Traffic officers are appealing for witnesses to call the road policing unit at Leigh on 0161 856 7273 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

Mr Smith's funeral will take place at Pendlebury Church at 11.30am on Saturday.