The cause of a crash in which a 32-year-old motorist was killed remains unknown, an inquest ruled.

Peter Howorth died in the early hours of May 27 last year after his Audi A5 crashed into a bridge on the A666 into Bolton.

An inquest into Mr Howorth's death took place at Bolton Coroners court.

Mr Howorth who lived Bolton, having lived in Little Lever as a child, ran a courier company with his father, Jeremy Howorth.

His father said: “He loved football, was extremely active and spent his holidays at football camps.

“He got trials for Oldham Athletic but wanted to play for Bolton Wanderers, who he supported.”

Mr Howorth described his son as a "happy and healthy" child and as "extremely popular" at school, with a large friendship group.

Mr Howorth added that over 300 people attended his son's funeral. 

On the evening of May 26, Mr Howorth saw two friends in Bolton, one earlier in the night to use his home gym, and then later at his friend's barbershop where he got a haircut. 

In the early hours of May 27, CCTV footage showed him driving into Manchester from Bolton.

Senior Coroner Timothy Brennand said: “At 5.24am on May 27, Mr Howorth, the sole occupant of his Audi A5, travelling at 86mph on the northbound side of the A666(M) Kearsley Spur.

“For reasons that remain unclear, he ceased to be in control of the motor car, travelling up the banking roof first.

“According to the forensic reconstructor’s report, the deceased made no attempt to brake, but at the last moment there was a steering input prior to impact.”

Pathologist Dr Patrick Waugh gave Mr Howorth’s medical cause of death as traumatic head injury.

Concluding, Mr Brennand gave Mr Howorth’s cause of death as a road traffic collision.

He added: “The loss to the family, to his father, to his siblings, to his partner is devastating.

“For your loss, I’m very, very sorry.”

He added that, although the cause of Mr Howorth losing control of his car was unclear, it could have been as a result of him falling asleep. 

In a tribute following the inquest, the family said: “To know Peter really was to love him. A contagious laugh, brilliant sense of humour and big heart.

“Peter would do anything for anyone and was always generous with his time. He has left a huge void in so many peoples lives and will be dearly missed by those who love him forever.”