A MOTORCYCLIST suffered horrific leg injuries when an overtaking, speeding car smashed into him at a notorious accident blackspot.

Samuel Bernstein was enjoying his weekly Sunday morning ride when he was hit by Imran Patel on Grane Road, near Belthorn, last September 21, Burnley Crown Court heard.

Patel, who was late for work, had overtaken a line of vehicles on a blind bend and was on the wrong side of the road. It was only the victim's skill which averted a head on crash.

Mr Bernstein, from Whitefield, was on crutches for eight weeks and was plunged into depression when it was feared he may face amputation. He was also haunted by the fact his 12-year-old normally went with him and could have been on the back of the bike.

Patel, of Lancaster Place, Blackburn, admitted dangerous driving. He was jailed for four months by Recorder Sarah Singleton. He was also banned for two years and must take an extended re-test.

Recorder Singleton said the defendant was in an "aggressive hurry".

Recorder Singleton added Patel had been at the wheel of a potentially lethal piece of machinery, had shown complete disregard for the safety of others and the public was entitled to be protected.

The judge continued: "No sentence will ever make up to Mr Bernstein the consequences of that accident."

Anthony Morris, defending, said Patel expressed remorse for the unfortunate outcome of the collision and had tried to phone Mr Bernstein to apologise.