A MAN has appeared in court and denied injuring a schoolgirl by driving dangerously in Bolton last year.

Cyclist Layla Shepherd, aged 12, needed surgery following a collision with an Audi on Wigan Road, Deane, near the junction with Horsfield Street at 6.50pm on October 16, 2021.

Layla, who was on her way home on her bike after visiting a friend, suffered a fractured cheekbone, broken nose and damaged leg.

At Bolton Crown Court Farhan Musaji, aged 25, of Evesham Close, Bolton, appeared before Judge Tom Gilbart and pleaded not guilty to causing serious injury by dangerous driving.

Musaji was given bail and a trial date was set for April 19 next year.