A CYCLIST was today fighting for life after a horrific collision with a car just weeks after he became a dad for the first time.

Aaron Alston, 18, of Perth Street, Burnley, was injured when his BMX bike collided with a Citroen Saxo driven by a 20-year-old Burnley man.

Police said the accident happened in Nairne Street, at the junction with Colin Street, Burnley, at 10.50pm on Saturday.

Aaron suffered horrific injuries to his face and body. His family were today praying that an emergency operation which doctors completed last night will prove successful.

Aaron, a former Barden High School pupil who is currently unemployed, became a father after his girlfriend Debbie gave birth to their first child Jordan-Leigh seven weeks ago.

Debbie has been at his bedside since the accident, alongside his mum Irene.

His dad John, 50, of Airdrie Crescent, said: "We got a phone call at 1.10am on Sunday saying Aaron had been involved in an accident. It's your worst nightmare to get a call like that.

"We didn't know what to expect when we went to see him but his face had been bandaged by the time we got to the hospital, although he still looked a mess.

"All his family will be at his bedside tonight, praying that he will get better."

Police said Aaron was taken to Burnley General Hospital after suffering life-threatening injuries to his face and head. His face was split open, he suffered a broken jaw and broken legs as a result of the accident.

He was transferred to Blackburn Royal Infirmary yesterday for the operation to his eye.

John added: "We are just hoping and praying he will come through. He recently became a dad for the first time and the baby was his life.

"He was looking for a job, something to do with mechanics because he loves messing around with cars."