A MOTORCYCLIST has been jailed after fatally colliding with a 71-year-old pedestrian.

At around 9:30pm on Wednesday, May 18, 2022, Daniel Rimmer was riding his motorbike along Haigh Road, Aspull, on a wet and dark evening.

Travelling at high speed, the 22-year-old collided with 71-year-old Clive Smees who was crossing the road, leaving him with serious injuries. Despite the best efforts of emergency services, Clive passed away at the scene as a result of his injuries.

Following an investigation by Greater Manchester Police's Serious Collision Investigation Unit, this revealed that Clive had been in the carriageway for over six seconds when the collision occurred. Despite this, Rimmer failed to slow down and continued to speed towards him, above the speed limit, making no significant effort to brake and prevent the collision. 

Rimmer, of Sandy Lane in Hindley, had pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving and he was sentenced to three years and four months at his sentencing hearing at Bolton Crown Court on Thursday, October 17.

The 22-year-old has also been disqualified from driving for six years and eight months, requiring an extended re-test.

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Speaking after sentencing, Clive’s family said: “We have today sought justice following Clive’s untimely and unnecessary death. Clive is one of many people who have tragically lost their lives on Greater Manchester roads through the dangerous actions of others.

“We will forever remember him, his character of kindness and calmness but above all his fondness to give love and be loved.

"He will be dearly missed by his loving wife, son and daughters and grandchildren. We would like to thank the officers of Greater Manchester Police and the CPS for their diligence in this investigation that brought it to court.”

Detective Constable Phil Drummond from our Serious Collision Investigation Unit added: “Rimmer knew the area; he knew the time of evening and the likelihood of encountering pedestrians on his journey. Despite the awful weather conditions, he chose speed and exhilaration over safety. 

“His lack of responsibility resulted in Clive never returning home. While nothing will ever make up for Rimmer’s selfish actions, I hope his sentencing brings Clive’s family some level of closure, and the thoughts of the entire investigation team will always be with them.”