READERS have offered their sympathy after a man died following a crash on the East Lancs in Leigh yesterday morning, Tuesday.

The crash involving a HGV and a car happened near the junction with Atherleigh Way at around 10.20am.

Police say the HGV was travelling towards Manchester when it collided with a Toyota Corolla that was turning right on to the A580.

Despite the best efforts of paramedics, a 58-year-old man, who was driving the Toyota, died at the scene.

A 56-year-old woman, who was also in the Toyota, sustained serious injuries and was taken to hospital where she remains.

A 28-year-old man, who was driving the HGV, was arrested at the scene on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.

Following the devastating collision, hundreds of readers reacted to the tragedy.

Diane Holcroft said: "Such sad news. Condolences to the family.

"Hopefully the lady will pull through."

Beverley Austin added: "(This) made me go cold when I heard about this accident!

"Absolutely devastating for the family of the deceased."

Josie Lindop said: "What a horrible accident.

"The poor family, my heart goes out to them.

"I pray the lady is OK and makes a speedy recovery."

Julie Churchward said: "It's so sad, poor man. Let's hope the lady recovers, my thoughts are with their families."

An investigation is ongoing and police are asking witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage to contact them.

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Sergeant Darren Hancock, of Greater Manchester Police's Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said: “This was a devastating incident - our thoughts are with the victims’ family and specialist officers are supporting them.

“We know the East Lancs is a busy road so we are hoping members of the public can assist us with our enquiries by providing us with vital information and/ or dash cam footage.

“I would also like to thank members of the public for their patience as we have responded to this collision. I appreciate that closing a busy road for a number of hours can inconvenience people, but I hope the public understand that it is necessary in order us to properly and thoroughly investigate, providing those affected with much needed answers.”

Anyone with information should contact GMP’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 0161 856 4741 quoting 890 of January 21. Alternatively, call the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.