A BLACKBURN man has died after his motorbike hit a lamppost in Liverpool.

Police said John McLeish, 22, who grew up in Highercroft, was not wearing a helmet.

He suffered fatal injuries in the crash in Wheat Hill Road, Huyton.

An 18-year-old man, who is believed to have been riding pillion on the bike without a helmet, received serious but not life threatening injuries, police said.

Officers are now conducting an investigation into the cause of the accident.

It is understood Mr McLeish moved to Whiston, Knowsley, several years ago to live with a foster family.

He lived with his mum Christine Taylor in Blackburn before he moved away.

She was too upset to talk yesterday.

Family friend and neighbour Jill Annis, of Flimby Close, said: "Its a terrible loss at such a young age.

"Johnny grew up in the Fishmoor Drive area of Blackburn and I remember him as a little lad.

"It's tragic as Christine lost her partner William last year. He was a diabetic and helped bring up Johnny when he first met Christine.

"Johnny went to his funeral last year. That was the last time I saw him."

His foster mum Michelle McNally said in a statement: "Johnny was a much loved son, brother and friend who always had a smile for everyone.

He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

"He will always be in our hearts and will never be forgotten. The world will be a sadder place without this true Scouser in it."

Floral tributes have been left at the scene of the fatal crash.

A card, signed Danielle, said: “Words can’t describe how much you meant to me. I don’t want to believe it, you was and always will be so special to me.

“It’s not guna be the same, you will be truly missed by everyone.

“I’ve got loads of boss memories with you babe. I’ll think of you every day and I hope you’re looking down on me, don’t know how I’m guna deal with not seeing your gorgeous smile!”

A date for his funeral has not yet been arranged.

Police in Merseyside are still appealing for witnesses to the accident which happened on Friday at 11.40am.