A MAN riding on the back of a motorbike is alleged to have threatened a police officer who was following the vehicle through Tyldesley.

Greater Manchester Police reported that a motorcycle was followed by officers as it was being "driven dangerously" at around 1.30am on Sunday, January 29.

With the vehicle reported to be travelling at speed, both the driver and passenger were also riding without helmets when officers began following them.

In what is believed to be a gesture to stop officers following the motorcycle, the pillion passenger is alleged to have threatened them with a weapon.

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Leigh Journal: The motorcycle is reported to have been riding against the flow of traffic as it reached Castle StreetThe motorcycle is reported to have been riding against the flow of traffic as it reached Castle Street (Image: Google Maps)

Reported to be speeding along Tyldesley Road, the vehicle "rode against the flow of traffic" as it reached Castle Street, and later crossed pair St George Street and onto School Street, where it slowed down and turned right into Railway Street.

The motorcycle, which didn’t display a registration plate, was later found burnt out on Victoria Road in Platt Bridge, Wigan.

Police appeal to find the two men on the motorcycle

Detective Superintendent Simon Hurst of the Wigan district said: “We are appealing to the public’s help to trace the two men who were riding on this motorcycle. It’s clearly something they are used to doing, driving at speed through areas that aren’t supposed to be accessed by motorcycles.

“We are particularly keen to hear from anyone who was driving in the area on Sunday who has dashcam footage that we could take a look at. Similarly, any doorbell or CCTV footage from the area would be helpful.

“Someone will know who they are and it is those people who we are asking to hear from. We need to get these dangerous people off the street, to make it safer for those who are living in Wigan and surrounding areas.

“If anyone knows any information, we ask that they dial 101 and quote reference number 262-29012023. Alternatively, contact the independent charity – Crimestoppers – anonymously on 0800 555 111.”