Oldham off-road bike accident leaves child needing surgery

A teenager was arrested after a child was run down by an illegal off-road bike.

The youngster, five, was playing football when he was struck by the bike at Kings Road playing fields in Oldham.

A 17-year-old boy was arrested and released under investigation after the incident on 4 August. The little boy needs surgery to his lip and leg due to his injuries.

Police said they know locals are fed up with off-road bikes being misused in the area and have stepped up efforts to tackle the problem.

Chief Inspector Abigail Cronin for Neighbourhood Partnerships in Oldham said: “My thoughts are with the little boy who has been injured and I hope that he makes a speedy recovery.

“We understand the frustration of the local community with this type of anti-social behaviour and we want them to know that we are aware of it and have a plan in place to ensure that it is dealt with appropriately.”

Greater Manchester Police in Oldham can be contacted on 0161 856 2191 or by dialling 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.