A man is to stand trial later this year accused of causing death by dangerous driving.

Mohammed Waqas, 32, is accused of causing the death of 26-year-old Irslaan Nowkhaiz, after the car he was driving crashed on the M65 in the early hours of September 29 2021.

Police were called just before 1.30am on September 29 2021 after receiving reports that an Audi A4 had overturned between junctions 11 and 12 on the eastbound carriageway.

Mr Nowkhaiz, from Nelson, thought to be the passenger of the vehicle, suffered fatal injuries and died at the scene.

Waqas, of Rhoda Street, Nelson, was taken to hospital with head injuries.

Collison investigators spent several hours examining the scene and the road was fully reopened at 12.40pm.

At the time Sgt Michael Belfield of Lancashire Police Tactical Operations said: “These are very sad and tragic circumstances and my thoughts are with the man’s family at this difficult time.

"An investigation is underway into the circumstances around the collision and we would encourage any witnesses to come forward.”

Waqas denies causing death by dangerous driving, causing death by driving without due care/consideration while over specified drug limit, and causing death by driving a vehicle while uninsured.

Waqas appeared at Preston Crown Court on Tuesday (September 26) for a pre-trial review.

The trial is expected to begin on November 20.

Waqas is on conditional bail until that date.