A WARNING has been issued to drivers after three people, including an eight-year-old girl, died in five separate serious collisions in 24 hours across Greater Manchester.

Assistant chief constable Rob Potts said simple things such as "watching your speed, planning your journey so you don’t feel the need to rush, avoiding alcohol and not being distracted by your phone" could help to save lives.

A difficult period for the emergency services began when two children were left critically injured in hospital after separate crashes in Heywood.

Two girls, aged 11 and 12, were injured in incidents at 5.40pm and 8.15pm and officers later arrested a 43-year-old man on suspicion of driving under the influence of drugs and causing serious injury by dangerous driving.

Later that night, a 21-year-old woman and a 48-year-old man were taken to hospital following a collision between a car and pedestrians in Middleton.

The woman died in hospital from her injuries and a 31-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving and drink driving. He remains in custody for questioning.

Then, in the early hours of this morning, a 17-year-old cyclist was pronounced dead in hospital following a crash in Oldham.

Another cyclist, aged 19, remains in critical condition but the driver of a grey Vauxhall Insignia which was involved in the incident fled from the scene.

Finally, this was followed by a collision between a car and a pedestrian in Salford, reported shortly before 10.40am, which left an eight-year-old girl dead.

A 24-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. He remains in custody for questioning.

“Our thoughts are with the families and friends who have lost someone, as well as those who are at hospital with loved ones who are critically ill," ACC Potts said.

“I also want to recognise the actions of first responders, along with our communities, who have no doubt been affected themselves.

“We are still in the early stages of establishing the circumstances surrounding these collisions but I think they serve as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety.

“It is, and will continue to be, a priority for GMP and we are dedicated to not only policing the roads but also working with partners to educate people on its importance.

“As people get into their cars this evening, I would ask you to please recognise the safety of yourself, other road users and pedestrians."

He went on to warn of the dangers of darker nights and difficult winter weather conditions, as well as urging cyclists and walkers to wear high-visibility clothing and use appropriate lights.

He added: “I would urge anyone with information about any of these collisions to please contact our Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 0161 856 4741 and help our officers understand exactly how they occurred.”