An inquest has opened into the death of cyclist Lee Rayner, who lost his life in a crash in Bolton earlier this month.

Mr Rayner, aged 52, was riding his bike on May 5 at the junction between Chorley New Road and Victoria Road in Lostock when there was a collision.

Bolton Coroner's Court heard that he was taken to the Royal Bolton Hospital where he died from multiple injuries.

Senior Coroner Timothy Brennand was told that a person has been arrested over the death, but no criminal charges are likely to be brought within the next few weeks.

A fatal traffic collision report can take between six and nine months to prepare and no decision regarding criminal proceedings can be made until it is complete.

Mr Brennand adjourned the inquest for a further hearing to take place in August.

Following his death, tributes were paid to Mr Rayner, of Hollywood Road, Bolton.

Luke Smith said: “He was a really nice guy, we used to talk about football.

“He was a massive Liverpool fan. He’d just bought a ticket for the FA Cup final.”

Chris Boardman added: “Such a lovely lad, he was a massive Liverpool fan.

“Let’s hope they win the Champions League final.

“R.I.P Lee. You will be missed.”

Sgt Andrew Page, from Greater Manchester Police's Serious Collision Investigation Unit, appealed for anyone with information to get in touch.

He said: “Our thoughts are with the man’s family who are understandably devastated at this news and we’re doing all we can to get them the answers they deserve.

“We’re already following up a number of lines of enquiry and would urge anyone with information, or anyone with any dash-cam footage, to report it to us as it may assist with our investigation.

“Anyone who may have seen a grey VW Polo prior to the collision or in the area beforehand is also asked to get in touch by calling 0161 856 4741 or reporting it online or via LiveChat at www.gmp.police.uk.”