Detectives investigating the murder of a 23-year-old man in the early hours of Saturday morning, in Prestwich are making a direct appeal for a taxi driver to come forward.

David Lees from Blackley died at North Manchester General Hospital after being knocked down by a car on Middleton Road during a disturbance outside the BP garage.

The car failed to stop at the scene and drove away.

Detectives are appealing to a taxi driver who drove past the scene at the time of the incident to come forward.

Detective Superintendent Kevin Duffy from the Greater Manchester Police's Major Incident Team, who is leading the investigation said: "We are making extensive enquiries to trace the person responsible for David's murder and continue to appeal for information about the incident.

"Today, I'm particularly appealing to the driver of a black Hackney cab, who drove past the disturbance in the early hours of Saturday morning.

"The man picked up a passenger from Victoria in Manchester city centre and took him to his home in Blackley. We believe he saw the incident and could hold vital information to assist with the investigation.

"Investigations are continuing to identify the exact type of car that knocked David down and we are still keen for members of the public to contact us if they see a car with substantial front and windscreen damage.

"The disturbance involved up to about 20 people and is believed to have been between a white and Asian group. The motive behind the incident is still under investigation and I'd like to emphasise that we cannot confirm at this stage that this was racially motivated.

"There will be an increased number of officers patrolling the North Manchester and Prestwich areas throughout the week and over the weekend to reassure the community and anyone with any concerns can contact these officers or their local police station."

Anyone who has any further information about the incident is asked to contact the Major Incident Room at Chadderton on 0161 856 2467 or 856 2441. Information can also be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

A post mortem examination revealed that David died as a result of severe head injuries.

Two men, aged 25 and 27, who were arrested in connection with the incident have been bailed until December 12.