THE killers of a puppy hurled to its death from a motorway bridge at Ramsbottom may never be found.

The Labrador-mongrel had its legs and jaw bound with tape and was dropped 30ft onto the southbound carriageway of the M66 on May 24.

It survived the fall, but was killed moments later when it was crushed under the wheels of a car.

Police have been unable to find the owner of the dog to identify the culprits despite receiving numerous calls from shocked members of the public naming potential suspects.

Sgt Chris Nealand, who has been heading the hunt for the dog's killers, said: "None of the names given to us checked out and forensic tests on the tape used to bind the dog did not reveal any fingerprints of those responsible for this cruel and savage act."

"Another problem is that we have been unable to identify who owned the dog. No reports have been made reporting one missing that fits its description."

Following the dog's death, a Bury businessman offered a £500 reward and the Sun newspaper a further £1,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the animal killers.

Sgt Nealand, of the motorway police unit, said: "The public were shocked and outraged by what happened to this puppy.

"I am sorry that we have not caught anyone for it but the case will remain open and we will continue to investigate as and when new information is given to us."