AN OFF-ROAD moped rider is in a critical condition following an incident in Tyldesley on Sunday afternoon.

The rider was being followed by police and had failed to stop after an officer's request, say Greater Manchester Police.

Police had been on off-road bikes as part of an anti-social behaviour operation.

The man, in his 20s, came off the moped on Shuttle Street in Tyldesley.

He was taken to hospital following the incident at about 4.45pm and remains in a critical condition.

A cordon is currently in place at the scene while enquiries are carried out, a police spokesperson added.

The incident has been referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct.

PC John Cavanagh, from GMP's Serious Investigation Collision Unit, said: "Our thoughts are with the man's family who are understandably distressed whilst he fights for his life in hospital.

"A cordon is currently in place at the scene and we have referred the incident to the IOPC due to the police contact in the moments before this incident.

"We will do all we can to support any subsequent investigation.

"Anyone with information can report it online or by using our LiveChat service online at www.gmp.police.uk quoting incident number 2138 of 06/06/2021.

"Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."