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Thieves steal motorbike from critically injured rider after crash in Manchester

A man's motorbike was stolen by "cold-hearted" thieves as he lay critically injured after a crash, police have said.

The 28-year-old collided with a lamppost in Gorton, Manchester, just after 5.30am on 23 June, and is now fighting for his life in intensive care.

Two men approached the injured biker as he lay on the ground on the junction between Mount Road and Kirkmanshulme Lane and stole the motorcycle.

"Someone must know who preyed on this man, stealing his bike and leaving him for dead - that's the lowest of the low," said Detective Constable Nick Kershaw.

One of the men, believed to be white, was on a black moped, possibly with a 56 or 48 number plate and wearing a black helmet, Greater Manchester Police said.

The second man was also described as white and around 17 years old, with a skinny build and about 5ft 5in.

He had black hair in a short back and sides style and was clean shaven, police added.

The thieves were later seen in the bus lay-by on Mount Road trying to start the bike, which had a broken gear lever.

"Thankfully, some true good Samaritans stopped to help the man shortly after," DC Kershaw added.

"The man's family wish to thank them for all that they did. They believe their son would have died at the scene if he had been left any longer. They are calling them 'his guardian angels'."

DC Kershaw called the incident "a despicable crime".

"I just don't know how anyone could leave a person for dead and steal their belongings, the thought of it makes me feel sick," he said.

"I am appealing for anyone who knows those responsible to get in touch as soon as possible. We will do all that we can to find these cold-hearted criminals."

Police have released photos of the black and orange 125 KTM trials-style bike with the registration number WD14 DBO.

Anyone with any information is asked to call police on 0161 856 1146, or alternatively call 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.