AN uninsured driver who was described as a "menace on the roads" has been jailed for ploughing into and killing a father outside a pub.

Safvan Patel, 27, of East Park Road, Blackburn, was jailed for two years and nine months at Bolton Crown Court today after he pleaded guilty to causing death by careless driving.

He also admitted driving a vehicle without insurance and has been banned for five years.

His victim, Jack Hindley, 61, who used a crutch to help him walk, had been out drinking with friends in Bolton town centre, and was on his way to another pub after drinks at the Albion when Patel smashed into him at about 11.45pm on Saturday, June 5, 2011.

He and his friends were crossing Moor Lane when a silver Vauxhall Vectra driven by Patel ploughed into him, throwing Mr Hindley several feet into the air.

Patel initially drove off, but returned shortly after, parking the car nearby.

He then walked back and stood watching as members of the public attempted first aid.

Patel then got back into his car and drove away from the scene a second time.

Paramedics pronounced Mr Hindley dead at the scene. He had suffered multiple injuries.

About 30 minutes later Patel returned to the outer cordon, and was spoken to by a police officer, who had noticed that the front of his car was seriously damaged.

He admitted being the driver and was arrested.

Sgt Mark Thomas said: "First and foremost, my thoughts go out to the friends and family of Jack Hindley.

"Patel has been sent to jail today, but he will have to live with the knowledge that he is responsible for a man's death for the rest of his life."