A CORONER said he will lobby the Highways Agency over safety barriers after the death of a motorist on the Edenfield bypass.

Bernard Boylan, 25, died from multiple injuries after his Nissan Almera left the A56, close to the Edenfield junction, and hit a lamp-post and trees.

Burnley Coroner’s Court was told Mr Boylan of Brookshaw Street, Bury had finished work early and was driving home for a meal with his fiancee to celebrate their engagement.

East Lancashire coroner Richard Taylor said he would be writing to the Highways Agency asking whether a crash barrier should be installed just off the road.

He said: “If there is a possibility that further deaths can be prevented then I have a duty, as coroner, to write to the relevant authorities and put the ball in their court.”

The inquest heard that the road met safety standards when it was constructed but in 2004 regulations had been published recommending barriers in such locations.

Police accident investigator PC Robert Barton, who confirmed he could find no mechanical defects with the Almera, said: “In my opinion, a barrier on that site is required.”

The officer also said that, while the road was damp, there was nothing to suggest why the Almera had skidded.

Eyewitness Michael Warren was driving south along the A56 on January 14 when he saw Mr Boylan’s Almera skidding past his car sideways along the outside lane.

The inquest heard that Mr Warren pulled up, after Mr Boylan’s car left the road, and attempted to comfort him until an ambulance arrived. He was pronounced dead shortly afterwards.

Recording an accidental verdict, coroner Mr Taylor said: “Sadly no-one will ever know how or why he lost control.”