A PENSIONER has died after he was hit by a car in Bolton town centre.

The 71-year-old was on a pedestrian crossing near Bath Street in Topp Way at 7.40pm on Sunday when he was hit by a greyBMWX5.

Paramedics tried to resuscitate him as he lay in the street, but were unable to save him.

He was later pronounced dead at the Royal Bolton Hospital.

Witnesses saw the man lying on the pavement on the other side of the railings on the town side of the main road. The westbound carriageway of Topp Way was closed for several hours while police examined the scene.

One man, who asked not to be named, said: “I saw lots of people and I knew straightaway that it must be serious because they were giving him CPR.

“They were pressing down on his chest and giving him mouth-tomouth.

“The ambulance came first and then the police cars came and they were there for a long time afterwards, until about midnight.”

Florence Smith, aged 86, of Downall Green, added: “I saw all the flashing lights and the activity.

There were a lot of police there.”

Stephen Rothwell, aged 58, also of Downall Green, said: “I thought it was a smash. There were police and an ambulance there and they cordoned off the road.”

The 32-year-old driver of the BMW has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and bailed until May 1 pending further inquiries.

Police were yesterday working to identify the man and inform his family.

Witnesses should call police on 0161 8567201.