MINDLESS thugs have vandalised a tree memorial that was put in place at the site where a 24-year-old man motorcyclist suffered fatal injuries in a crash earlier this year.

Jordan Murray, of Dorset Avenue, Tyldesley died after his motorbike collided with a car on Wigan Road in Leigh on February 18.

The engineer was taken to hospital but sadly died from a traumatic brain injury three days later.

Following Jordan's death, his family made a memorial at a tree where he died.

And two weeks ago his loved ones decorated it for Christmas.

Jordan Murray

The memorial tree for Jordan before it was vandalised

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But last night, Wednesday, Jordan's family found decorations had been destroyed and ripped down. A candle holder that his dad made, which was drilled onto the tree, had also been taken.

Shocked by the callous act of vandalism, Jordan's sister Jenna, 30, says the memorial is "not just a tree, it's the place my brother was last alive".

She said: "I'm devastated and heartbroken that someone could do this to the tree.

"That tree means everything to me its place where me and my children can go to get some reflection and perspective on life and to remember my brother for who he was.

"I hope that someone has seen something or heard something and can pass on some information as I really need to find out who has done this."

A Greater Manchester Police spokesman said: "Police were made aware on Thursday, December 19 of reports of theft and criminal damage at the site of a memorial in Leigh.

"The incident is believed to have taken place between Monday, December 16 and Wednesday, December 18.

"A police investigation is underway."

If you have any information about the incident contact police on 101 quoting reference number CRI/06LL/0013401/19.

Alternatively, phone the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.