Tragic dad: lawyers in appeal for witnesses

HIT-and-run victim Wayne Leary with daughter Aimee

LAWYERS representing the family of a Hollinwood father killed by a hit-and-run driver in front of his young daughter have appealed for witnesses to come forward.

Wayne Leary (38) was killed as he returned to his Hollinwood home with daughter Aimee on April 3 — three days before her 11th birthday.

As he crossed Oldham Road in Failsworth, at 11.20pm, he was struck by a 09-reg Kia Picanto, throwing him into the air and causing serious head injuries.

Mr Leary was taken to Salford Royal Hospital, but doctors were unable to save him and he died the following day.

The driver fled the scene but was later traced by police.

A 38–year–old man arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving was bailed until June 1 but has had that extended pending further inquiries. Now, lawyers representing Mr Leary’s family have appealed for anyone who witnessed the incident to come forward.

Polly Fletcher, a partner with Fentons Solicitors LLP, said that as police are currently unable to release their report or details of any witnesses, the family desperately need anyone who was in the area at the time to come forward and help as they pursue justice and financial security for Aimee.

Although Mr Leary had separated from Aimee’s mother six years ago, the little girl would spend weekends with her father and he provided for her financially.

Miss Fletcher said: “Not only has she lost a father who loved her deeply, she has lost the financial support he would have provided throughout her life.

“Clearly no amount of money can make up for the loss of her father, but it is greatly unfair to think that losing a parent might also place the family under additional financial pressure.

“If we are to help Aimee secure the financial support she will need in the coming years, we urgently need anyone who might have helpful information about the incident — no matter how small or insignificant they think it might be — to come forward.

“Mr Leary’s family are still suffering the aftermath of losing their loved one.

“It is only right that those responsible are held to account for this tragic loss, both of a loving father, son and brother, and the additional financial burden that the family now faces.”

Anyone who saw the incident near the Crown and Cushion pub should contact Polly Fletcher or Jenny Keith at Fentons Solicitors LLP on 0161-238 6400.

Alternatively e-mail polly.fletcher@fentons.co.uk or jenny.keith@fentons.co.uk

All information will be treated in the strictest confidence.