Canterbury boy killed in motorcycle accident

A 12-year-old boy was killed, and another was injured, when the motorcycle they were on hit a fence protecting a North Canterbury park.

The dead youngster was Michael Thomas McManus, of Woodend.

Police say that about 4.15pm yesterday Michael rode his brother's Yamaha 80cc into Gladstone Park, with another 12-year-old was on the pillion seat.

As they went around the perimeter of the park they drove into a single-strand wire fence about 750mm above the ground. The fence was intended to stop motor vehicles driving onto the rugby field.

Both boys were thrown off the motorcycle and Michael died at the scene.

The passenger received facial injuries and was treated at Christchurch Hospital. His injuries are not believed to be serious.

- CHRISTCHURCH STAR