A TEENAGE motorcyclist from Haslingden sparked a major police search after his machine broke down on moorland.

Thomas Trafford, 16, of Helmshore Road, was scrambling across the moorland tracks with three of his friends when his bike suffered problems between Cowpe and Edenfield.

His friends continued on the track to Gin Croft Lane, Edenfield, where they raised the alarm from the tea rooms at 4.20pm.

Inspector Paul Robinson said: "Police Land Rovers set off from Cowpe and Edenfield and we called out the helicopter.

"His bike was found abandoned on Rooley Moor Road at the Top of Lench and footprints could be seen heading off in the direction of Whitworth."

The helicopter followed the footprints and when it found Thomas he was picked up and taken back to the police Land Rovers at 5.40pm.

Once back with his pals at the tea rooms and after a warm drink, Mr Robinson said he seemed none the worse for his ordeal.

He said: "He can consider himself very lucky that the weather was not more severe.

"If people are setting off across any moorland they are advised to make someone else aware of where they are going, what time they can be expected back and what route they are taking."

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