A BUSINESSMAN killed a pensioner in a road smash due to a "momentary lapse in concentration," a court heard.

Burnley Crown Court was told Zahid Shafi, 39, was speeding in his five series BMW and heading for a takeaway restaurant when he hit John Fallows, 71, on Colne Road, Burnley, last November.

He then sped off "in blind panic" with a badly smashed windscreen - was said to have had his vehicle repaired in a bid to destroy evidence.

Shafi, of Colne Road, who was described as a successful businessman, yesterday admitted causing death by dangerous driving and attempting to pervert the course of justice on the day he had been due to face trial over the allegations. He had previously pleaded not guilty.

The defendant was conditionally bailed until July 23 for sentencing. He was ordered not to drive as he faces disqualification.

Richard Haworth, prosecuting, told the court Shafi had been travelling south along Colne Road in his BMW 535 at about 11.30pm. He had just passed a zebra crossing, had slowed but the crossing was clear and he accelerated.

At the time of impact, the defendant was travelling in excess of the 30mph speed limit, no more than 40mph. He had planned to visit Kentucky Fried Chicken and became distracted when the lights of the takeaway appeared to be switched off.

Mr Haworth said Shafi admitted he failed to concentrate on the road for a few seconds and had a momentary lapse of concentration.

Immediately after the accident, Shafi acknowledged he drove away at speed, did not appreciate what had caused the accident and was in a blind panic.

The defendant later took his BMW to be repaired, destroying potential evidence.

Shafi denied that was his motive but said he was in a state of shock.

He claimed he was not thinking rationally, the court was told.

Grandfather Mr Fallows, known to family and friends as Jack and was Burnley born and bred, was walking back to his home in Cardinal Street after a night out when he was knocked down.

He had been socialising with friends at the Paradise Club, where he was a well-known and popular face.

Mr Fallows had just returned from a holiday with friends in Greece and had been looking forward to spending Christmas with his family.