LIBERAL Democrat councillor Wilf Clegg has suffered extensive brain damage after a road accident.

The Holyrood representative underwent a six-hour operation at the Royal Preston Hospital after he sustained massive head injuries.

Coun Clegg (53), of Brandram Road, Prestwich, was involved in an accident with an Escort van outside Tesco in Prestwich. It is though the postman may have been cycling to work when the accident happened on Tuesday lunchtime (April 25).

The father-of-three was taken to North Manchester General Hospital and then transferred to Preston where he is said to be in a critical condition. No suitable beds were available at Salford's Hope Hospital.

His wife Jeanette said: "I am trying to be strong for the children. It is just the shock of it and I am trying to keep going. "He must have taken most of the force on his head. I do not know what happened, I just want my Wilf back."

Coun Clegg has served on the council for six years and colleague and friend Coun Wilf Davison, leader of the Liberal Democrats in Bury, said: "I have been at the hospital with the family and we are all in a state of shock.

"He is a lovely bloke and a superb councillor and we are hoping and praying for him."

The driver of the van was 35-year-old John Williams from Rochdale and police are appealing for witnesses.

Sergeant Martin Greenwood of Bury Traffic Unit said: "The accident is being investigated and any decisions will be made once all the information has been collected."