BIKERS from across East Lancashire have paid a unique tribute to a young hit-and-run victim - by ensuring animals at two local sanctuaries are well fed this Christmas.

Forty members of the Accrington Motorcycle Club travelled to Bleakholt Animal Sanctuary, near Edenfield, to donate food in honour of 12-year-old Amy Houston, who was knocked down nearly 12 months ago in Blackburn.

Her father Paul, of Russia Street, Accrington, is a member of the club and took animal-lover Amy to visit the sanctuary last year.

Two days later, she was knocked down by failed asylum seeker Aso Mohammed Ibrahim on Newfield Drive, on Blackburn's Highercroft estate. He fled the scene and later handed himself in to police.

He was jailed for four months for driving while disqualified, without insurance and failing to stop after an accident.

But there was not enough evidence to charge him with causing death by dangerous driving - a decision which has led Paul to campaign for a change in the law so anyone driving either uninsured or disqualified is culpable for accidents which result in death.

The ride to Bleakholt was dedicated to Amy's memory, and the 40 bikers all wore purple armbands as a mark of respect. Purple was the Our Lady and Saint John's High School pupil's favourite colour.

They also made a donation to the RSPCA shelter at Altham.

Paul said: "I was moved when they told me they were dedicating the trip in Amy's memory. Amy loved going to the animal sanctuaries, so doing some good like this is really special.

"She came with us last year and really enjoyed herself. It is one of my favourite memories with her and she used to enjoy riding the bike with me.

"The purple armbands were very touching too. The fact people haven't forgotten about Amy is good to know."

An inquest into Amy's death in April recorded a verdict of accidental death.