A CORONER has warned of a "remarkable" rise in fatal crashes involving novice bikers.

Michael Singleton spoke out at an inquest into the death of a 34-year-old man who lost control of his motorcycle at a notorious bend on an East Lancashire A road.

Jason Stott, from Rochdale, struck the kerb at Devil's Elbow, a bend on the A671 road between Whalley and Read, the hearing was told.

He had passed his motorbike test just four months before the April 2 crash and was said to be travelling at 70mph.

The jobless air conditioning fitter was thrown from the 900cc Kawasaki Ninja and hit a lamp-post, the inquest heard. His female passenger was seriously injured.

Blackburn, Hyndburn and Ribble Valley coroner Mr Singleton said he was concerned with the number of fatal accidents reported involving motorcyclists.

"The number seems to be increasing remarkably and there is almost a profile that is developing."

He added the profile was of riders aged 35 to 45 who bought high-powered bikes despite being inexperienced, maybe having a lower powered machine in their youth, and would go riding on clear Sunday afternoons.

He said in the case of Mr Stott that "a number of the boxes are ticked."

Mr Singleton added: "I know for the family and friends this is a unique experience. But in this court it is not unique. I am concerned to see anguished faces far too frequently."

The inquest in Blackburn heard Mr Stott, of Homestead Gardens, had been in a group of five. His passenger Deborah Little attended the hearing on crutches.

Driver Graham Hinde said he was overtaken by three bikes travelling towards Read at about 7.15pm. The third, rode by Mr Stott, was going 70mph, he said, adding: "He looked as though he was trying to keep up."

Mr Singleton's verdict was accidental death and he added lessons were to be learned.