THE family of a teenager who died after being hit by a car as he crossed the M61 have made an emotional plea for help in piecing together his final moments.

Heartbroken Michael and Sheila Green want anybody who knows why their 17-year-old son Sean was on the motorway to contact police.

The couple made the appeal for information as they spoke of their devastation.

In a statement released to The Bolton News, Mr and Mrs Green, of Whitsundale, Westhoughton, said: "Sean was an outgoing, fun loving lad who always made friends very easily.

"Sean was the joker of the family. He was always playing pranks on his brothers, Stuart and Martyn. He was always helpful, supportive and very protective of his family. He was loving, caring and dutiful. He was one of a kind and will be missed dreadfully by everyone.

"Words cannot describe the feeling of losing a son and brother in these tragic circumstances. Sean was 17 and had his whole life in front of him.

"The loss of his infectious personality has left a massive void in everyone's lives. The family is devastated by the events of the last four days and once again appeals to anyone who might have information regarding why Sean was on the motorway at that time of night to come forward and speak to the police."

Sean, a former St Joseph's RC School pupil and trainee mechanic, was hit by a Fiat Punto in the early hours of Sunday morning as he crossed the M61 between junctions five and six.

He was taken to the Royal Bolton Hospital and later transferred to Hope Hospital where his family kept a contant vigil by his bedside.

Sean, a avid fan of fishing, motorbikes and music, was surrounded by his family when he stopped breathing at 10pm on Wednesday night.

A decision was made by doctors and his parents to take him off a ventilator after he suffered chronic brain damage because of his injuries.

The teenager's uncle, Chris Green, said: "Because of the pressure that his injuries had caused, he was badly brain damaged.

"A lot of his friends and family have been in to see him and the priest from Sacred Heart Church in Westhoughton read him his last rites on Tuesday night.

"All of his family want to thank the staff at Hope Hospital who have been brilliant."

The family have requested that no floral tributes are placed within the boundaries of the motorway for safety reasons.

Police have launched an investigation into the crash.

Anyone with any information is asked to call traffic police on 0161 856 8361.

A Book of Condolence has been opened on this website with the family's blessing. Click HERE to add your tribute.