THE Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) is appealing for witnesses who may be able to assist its investigation into a road traffic accident in Radcliffe in which two men died.

Jack Francis Christian (22), of Greenside Chase, Bury, and Lee James Perris, aged 23, of Eton Hill Road, Radcliffe, were killed when the silver Volkswagen Polo they were in overturned and collided with a tree. The crash happened on Bury Road at around 3.30am on Sunday (Dec 2).

The IPCC is conducting an independent investigation into the incident as a driver of a Greater Manchester Police patrol car had spotted the VW Polo in Wellington Road, Bury. The officer activated the patrol cars blue lights and sirens as the VW Polo travelled into Manchester Road and Radcliffe Road, Bury, before the collision occurred in Bury Road, Radcliffe, opposite the Newbank Garden Centre.

IPCC Commissioner Ms Naseem Malik said: "My sympathies go out to the families of these two young men. This must be an incredibly difficult time for them. Our investigation will focus on the involvement of the police vehicle in the incident and we are appealing for the public's assistance in constructing a complete a picture as possible of the events of that night.”

Anyone with information about this incident are asked to contact the IPCC on 0800 096 9073 or email address christian_perris_incident@ipcc.gsi.gov.uk