POLICE have apologised to the family of a young man who died in a crash on the Grane Road after his story was used in a publicity campaign.

The case of Joseph Daniels, 20, who died in 2014, was highlighted at the launch of average speed cameras on the notorious road because comedian Ted Robbins came across the aftermath of the crash.

The campaign launch was trying to educate drivers about the dangers of speeding but the incident in which Joseph, of Ashton-under-Lyne, died was not speed-related and his family complained to officers.

Ted spoke at the launch of the 'heartbreaking moment' he saw Joseph's Mini flipped on its side and how he 'died in his arms' after a crash with a Mercedes.

Five others were injured after two cars collided near the Grane Road near the Grey Mare pub, Belthorn, on August 24, 2014.

A Lancashire Police statement said: "Following the publication of an interview with Ted Robbins across some of our social media channels, we would like to clarify the following.

"The road traffic collision on the Grane Road which resulted in the tragic death of Joe Daniels and serious injuries to his sister Chloe and friends, spoken about by Ted Robbins at the launch of the average speed cameras on November 6, was not speed-related.

"The intention of referring to this incident was to make people aware of the impact that fatal and serious collisions have on those involved in whatever capacity.

"We would like to apologise for any distress caused to the Daniels family and friends and the sharing of Joe's final moments that are private to the family."

The average speed cameras, which cover a stretch of around five miles between junction 5 of the M65 and the A56 turn-off in Haslingden, went live earlier this month.

They are trying to restrict drivers to 50mph or under.