THE father of an eight-year-old boy killed in a motorcycle accident has created a memorial garden in his name.

The tragic death of Billy Joe Dean touched the hearts of hundreds of people in Stoneclough.

And when his father, Joe, decided to transform a small plot of derelict land behind the family home into a memorial garden, neighbours were only too willing to give him a helping hand.

Now the garden has blossomed to such an extent that it spans the length of six houses.

It has grown to more than 60 ft-long, and stretches around the side of the terraced row.

Billy was struck by motorcyclist Steven Harrison's 1,000cc Suzuki bike after it lost control and collided with a Porsche, in August last year.

The bike ploughed into him as he walked along Market Street after watching his brother play football. He was killed instantly.

Now though, residents and his family have a constant and colourful reminder of bright-eyed Billy, who had attended Prestloee Primary School. Mr Dean (45) said: "I started it just outside my house in June. We just thought that it would be a good way to remember Billy -- to see something grow and develop.

"Then I ran out of space and asked the neighbours if they would mind if I carried on. They liked the idea and started to donate plants and flowers. It just snowballed from there and looks amazing."

He added: "It is like one big memorial to Billy and I am sure he would have loved it. I would like to thank everyone who has helped, including local nurseries."

Harrison (40), from Tyldesley, was last month jailed for six years and banned from driving for eight years after pleading guilty at Bolton Crown Court to causing death by dangerous driving and other motoring offences.