THREE men from Blackburn were killed and a fourth was critically injured after their car left a dual carriageway and hit a tree last night.

The driver of the Honda Legend and two passengers died when it careered off Preston New Road, Samlesbury, as they travelled towards Blackburn from the M6.

The three men, aged 18, 24 and 27, were pronounced dead at the scene. A third passenger, aged 23, was taken to the Royal Preston Hospital where he was said to be seriously ill today.

The policeman leading the inviestigation into the accident today said it was the worst accident scene he had dealt with in 27 years.

Officers closed the road for four hours while the debris was removed and an accident investigation took place.

The crash occured around half a mile from the motorway's junction 31 roundabout at 11.25pm as the men were travelling towards Blackburn.

Police believe the Honda Legend had left the M6 just seconds before the crash, on an uphill stretch of road.

The identities of the men have not yet been released, but police said they were all Asian and from Blackburn.

Sergeant Dave Tonge, of Ormskirk police who is investigating the crash, said: "It was the worst scene I have been to in 27 years of service. It was pretty horrific.

"At this stage we are keeping an open mind as to how the accident occurred. It is too early to speculate.

"I am satisfied at this stage that we have got one vehicle involved, but why it left the road, I am not too sure and have to keep an open mind."

Police have appealed a woman who stopped at the scene and who was driving a Landrover Defender, to come forward.

Sgt Tonge added: "I don't think she didn't stop for anything untoward but I want to eliminate her from our inquiries.

"We don't think there would be many people on the road at that time but we appeal for anyone with information to come forward.

"We already have two witnesses who stopped at ther scene.

"Our priority this morning will be identifying the victims and making steps to trace the relatives.

"We will also be examining the vehicle."

Anyone with information is asked to call Ormskirk police on 01695 566 486.